•First lady Jill Biden, Hunter Biden and his wife Melissa Cohen Biden leave the J. Caleb Boggs Federal Building on June 11/Anna Moneymaker/Getty Images
Hunter Biden, the son of President Joe Biden, was found guilty on all charges Tuesday in his federal gun trial. The verdict, which comes as his father campaigns for re-election, marks the first time a sitting president’s child has been convicted of a crime.
The trial, which began in early June, culminated with a rapid jury deliberation lasting only three hours. The charges stemmed from an October 2018 incident in which Hunter, allegedly using a narcotic, illegally purchased and possessed a firearm. Prosecutors argued that he knowingly lied on a federal form about his drug use, while the defense claimed he was in recovery from a recent stint in rehab and not using drugs at the time.
His lawyer, Abbe Lowell, expressed disappointment with the outcome but reaffirmed a commitment to pursuing all legal avenues. Hunter himself focused on the support he has received, stating, “I am more grateful today for the love and support from my family and friends than I am disappointed by the outcome.”
Inside the courtroom, the verdict was met with tension and quiet resignation. Hunter remained almost motionless as the decision was read, later embracing his lawyer and kissing his wife before exiting the courthouse swiftly. The swift verdict announcement meant that several Biden family members, including First Lady Jill Biden, were not present.
He faces up to 25 years in prison, though as a first-time offender, it is unlikely he will receive the maximum sentence. A sentencing date has not yet been set. This federal gun trial is one of two major legal battles he is expected to face before the November election, adding significant strain to the Biden family’s already intense public scrutiny.
The trial offered a rare glimpse into the personal lives of the Biden family, with testimony from Hunter’s former romantic partners and detailed accounts of his struggles with addiction. Hallie Biden, Beau Biden’s widow who had a romantic relationship with Hunter, testified about his drug use and deceit. Kathleen Buhle, Hunter’s ex-wife, described cleaning drugs out of his car to protect their daughters.
The prosecution painted Hunter as a privileged individual using his wealth recklessly, including extravagant spending detailed by witnesses. In contrast, the defense portrayed him as a man battling addiction and striving for recovery. Dramatically, Hunter’s eldest daughter Naomi testified, emphasising her father’s sobriety during a critical period in 2018.
The trial, intertwined with themes of addiction, privilege, and family loyalty, has profound implications for President Biden’s re-election campaign. While the president has expressed unwavering support for his son, the conviction is a political blow during a pivotal election season. President Biden has also stated that he would not pardon his son if convicted, reinforcing the seriousness with which his administration is treating the legal proceedings. (axios.com)