Overview
Hunter Biden, the son of President Joe Biden, was found guilty on all charges in his federal gun trial in Delaware, leading to a potential prison sentence and significant fines. The case has drawn national attention due to its timing and the involvement of high-profile individuals.
Why It Matters
This case underscores concerns about the rule of law and accountability for individuals in positions of influence.
Who It Impacts
This decision impacts the Biden family, the judicial system, and sets a precedent for similar cases involving public figures.
Hunter Biden, the son of President Joe Biden, has been found guilty on all charges in his federal gun trial held in Delaware. The jury’s decision, reached on the second day of deliberations, convicted the 54-year-old on three felony counts related to lying on firearm paperwork and owning a gun while being a drug addict in 2018. This conviction could result in a prison sentence of up to 25 years and fines totaling $750,000.
Following the verdict, Hunter Biden was seen exiting the courthouse hand-in-hand with First Lady Jill Biden and his wife, Melissa Cohen Biden. Sentencing is anticipated to occur in approximately four months, coinciding with the upcoming election period, as noted by “CBS Evening News” anchor Norah O’Donnell. Despite pleading not guilty, Hunter Biden may consider appealing the court’s decision. President Joe Biden has publicly stated that he will not pardon his son.
Hunter Biden leaves court hand-in-hand with First Lady Dr. Jill Biden and his wife after being found guilty on all counts in his federal gun case. pic.twitter.com/exmmVXNwhX
— CSPAN (@cspan) June 11, 2024
The trial, which lasted just over a week, featured testimonies from various witnesses, including Hunter Biden’s ex-wife, a former girlfriend, and the gun store clerk who sold him the firearm. Hallie Biden, the widow of Hunter’s late brother Beau Biden, provided key testimony about disposing of the revolver publicly and Hunter’s introduction of her to crack cocaine.
Defense attorneys argued that there was no concrete evidence proving Hunter Biden was abusing drugs at the time he applied for and owned the revolver. However, prosecutors presented text messages where Hunter admitted to Hallie Biden that he was “smoking crack” and “waiting on a dealer” shortly after purchasing the gun.
In addition to the gun charges, Hunter Biden faces tax-related charges in California, with a trial scheduled for September. These charges emerged following the collapse of a plea deal last year and are being led by special counsel David Weiss. President Biden, who is campaigning for a second term, reiterated his support for his son in a statement released after the verdict, emphasizing the family’s unwavering love and support.
