Hunter Biden, the son of President Joe Biden, began his trial on federal gun charges, a legal battle that marks the first-ever criminal trial of a sitting U.S. president’s child.
The proceedings kicked off with twelve jurors and four alternates, all Delaware residents, being swiftly chosen after a day of rigorous vetting. Prospective jurors faced questions about their views on gun rights, political prosecutions, and whether their opinions about the President could impact their impartiality.
Hunter Biden is accused of making false statements about his drug use when he purchased a firearm in 2018, charges that could lead to significant prison time.
Specifically, he faces two felony charges for allegedly lying on a federal background check form during the purchase of a Colt Cobra .38 special revolver. According to the indictment, he denied being “an unlawful user of, or addicted to, marijuana or any depressant, stimulant, narcotic drug, or any other controlled substance” – an assertion contested by federal prosecutors who claim he was using crack cocaine at the time.
Moreover, Hunter Biden is charged with unlawful possession of the firearm, which was reportedly discarded in a supermarket trash can after being in his possession for 11 days. If convicted on all counts, he could face up to 25 years in prison and fines totaling $750,000.
In a defense that focuses on the nuances of language and self-perception, Hunter Biden’s attorney, Abbe Lowell, argues that his client might have believed he was truthful on the form, especially considering his recent completion of a rehabilitation program.
Adding a personal dimension to the trial, the prosecution’s witness list includes three women who were romantically involved with Hunter Biden and are expected to testify regarding his drug use.
This list comprises Kathleen Buhle, his ex-wife; Hallie Biden, his late brother’s widow; and a third, unidentified woman. These testimonies are poised to paint a vivid picture of Hunter Biden’s personal challenges.
The trial, expected to last about two weeks, will also feature evidence from the gun shop employee who sold Hunter the revolver, a former Delaware police officer who recovered the firearm, and experts on drug substances and coded messages.
Despite the gravity of the trial, President Biden has expressed unwavering support for his son. In a statement of support, Biden said, “I am the President, but I am also a Dad. Jill and I love our son, and we are so proud of the man he is today. Hunter’s resilience in the face of adversity and the strength he has brought to his recovery are inspiring to us. A lot of families have loved ones who have overcome addiction and know what we mean.”
This trial occurs amidst a broader scrutiny of the Biden family by critics and comes just as President Biden prepares for significant diplomatic engagements in Europe, including the D-Day commemorations in France and the G7 summit in Italy.
This story is still developing…