Hunter Biden, son of US President Joe Biden, was found guilty on Tuesday of federal gun charges. The historic conviction marks the first time a sitting president’s child has faced criminal prosecution.
Hunter Biden, 54, was accused of providing false information regarding his illegal drug use while purchasing a handgun in 2018. The jury, which deliberated for nearly three hours over two days, convicted him on all three counts. The charges included lying on a federal background check form and illegal possession of the firearm.
This verdict comes amid President Biden’s reelection campaign and coincides with his scheduled speech on gun violence. It also follows closely behind former President Donald Trump’s conviction on business fraud charges. The legal proceedings against Hunter Biden have added a layer of complexity to the political landscape, particularly for the Democrats aiming to keep focus on Trump.
Hunter Biden’s conviction has reopened old wounds for the Biden family, who have endured significant personal losses, including the deaths of Hunter’s mother and siblings. Throughout the trial, First Lady Jill Biden attended multiple sessions, while President Joe Biden publicly expressed his unwavering support for his son.
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Hunter Biden’s struggles with addiction, which he has openly discussed, were a focal point during the trial. An FBI agent testified that Hunter Biden admitted to using crack cocaine shortly after purchasing the firearm. Despite his potential 25-year prison sentence and a $750,000 fine, as a first-time offender, a less severe penalty is anticipated.
The trial, led by special counsel David Weiss, has reinforced the non-political nature of the investigation. Hunter Biden faces another upcoming trial on federal tax charges, further intensifying the scrutiny on the Biden family. President Biden has stated there will be no presidential pardon for his son, ensuring the legal process proceeds without executive intervention.
