How the Release of Paul Pelosi’s Attack Video Could Impact David DePape’s Trial

SAN FRANCISCO (KGO) — Video of David DePape allegedly attacking Paul Pelosi is now available for everyone, including potential jurors.

“When you look at the brazen nature of this attack in full view of a police officer, it’s very devastating evidence that people see over and over again,” said legal analyst and former prosecutor Steven Clark. “Neither DePape’s defense team nor the prosecution wanted this information disclosed. This greatly affects Mr. DePape’s ability to obtain a fair trial.”

VIDEO: Court releases video of attack on Paul Pelosi at his San Francisco home

Body camera footage shows police arriving at Pelosi’s home on October 28, the night of the attack. Cameras capture the moment DePape allegedly attacked Paul Pelosi with a hammer.

“I think the defense might change locations outside of San Francisco because every San Franciscan who sees this will have a really hard time showing up in court, giving Mr. DePape a clean slate,” Clark said.

VIDEO: Watch hammer attack footage

DePape faces multiple federal charges and state felony charges, including attempted murder, to which he has pleaded not guilty.

“The sanity defense is always on the table for the defense.” Clark said, noting that the recording of police questioning DePape could play a key role.

VIDEO: David DePape pleads not guilty to charges against Paul Pelosi at family home in SF

RELATED: Chilling Details Reveal Intent Behind Paul Pelosi San Francisco Attack; Newsom, targets of Tom Hanks

“I think the defense will look at the statement he gave to the police and say he is an unbalanced, mentally ill man,” Clark said, adding that the questioning could also go into both ways.

“Mr. DePape makes a full confession to these charges, which is certainly problematic as well, because this questioning may not have taken place at trial,” Clark said. “But now it’s public and how do you ring that bell?”

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