Paul Pelosi Faces Hit-and-Run Charge in Napa County

Paul Pelosi, husband of Representative Nancy Pelosi, has been charged with a hit-and-run following an incident in Yountville, California. The Napa County Sheriff’s Office released a statement confirming the charge.

A spokesperson for the Pelosi family stated in an email to Newsweek that Paul Pelosi has apologized to the vehicle owner and committed to covering the damage costs. Nancy Pelosi, the House Speaker, will not be commenting further, considering this a private matter.

Incident Details

The collision took place at approximately 2:30 p.m. local time in Napa County’s wine region. According to a witness, a brown convertible struck a parked vehicle, damaging its rear, before fleeing the scene. The 86-year-old Pelosi was identified as the driver, with no reported injuries. He was not arrested, although he faces a misdemeanor charge.

The sheriff’s department intends to request a driver re-evaluation for Pelosi from the California DMV, a standard procedure for older drivers.

Pelosi told deputies he realized he hit something but continued driving until his car was disabled. The investigation found no alcohol involvement, ruling out a DUI charge.

Previous Legal Issues

In May 2022, Paul Pelosi pleaded guilty to misdemeanor DUI charges in Napa County. He received a sentence of five days in jail and three years of probation, serving two days in jail, earning good conduct credits, and completing a work program.

As part of his probation, Pelosi attended a three-month DUI class and installed an ignition interlock device on his vehicle. He also paid about $5,000 for victim restitution and nearly $2,000 in fines.

Historical Context

A tragic event from 1957 involved a car crash by a then 16-year-old Pelosi, resulting in the death of his brother, David Pelosi. David reportedly died from complications related to a neck brace after the vehicle overturned.

Personal Background

Paul Pelosi gained attention in October 2022 after an attack at his San Francisco residence. An intruder assaulted him with a hammer, causing serious injuries. Pelosi underwent surgery for a skull fracture and injuries to his arm and hands. The attacker, David DePape, demanded to see Nancy Pelosi, who was not home, and received a 30-year prison sentence.

Paul Pelosi runs Financial Leasing Service, a firm focused on venture capital investment and consulting. He formerly owned the Sacramento Mountain Lions football team. Pelosi, a San Francisco native, married Nancy Pelosi in 1963.