In a historic and highly publicized case, Hunter Biden has been found guilty on all three felony charges related to illegally obtaining and possessing a firearm. The verdict, reached by a Delaware jury after three hours of deliberations over two days, marks the first time a child of a sitting president has been convicted of criminal charges. This legal milestone raises significant questions about accountability and justice in America.
The charges stem from an incident in 2018 when Hunter Biden, then struggling with addiction, lied on a federal form about his drug use to purchase a handgun. He subsequently possessed the weapon for 11 days while addicted to a controlled substance. These actions led to his indictment on charges that could result in up to 25 years in prison and $750,000 in fines. However, it’s worth noting that first-time offenders rarely receive the maximum sentence, and often avoid jail time altogether.
Delaware jury just found Hunter Biden guilty on all three counts of lying on a federal firearms form.
This doesn’t undo any of the treason Joe Biden and the Uniparty have committed.pic.twitter.com/cSglNWCbmz
— Paul A. Szypula ???????? (@Bubblebathgirl) June 11, 2024
District Judge Maryellen Noreika, a Trump appointee supported by both of Delaware’s Democratic senators, will make the final sentencing decision. As the nation watches closely, this case underscores the complex interplay between personal responsibility and political influence.
Throughout the trial, which began on June 3, 2024, in Wilmington, Delaware, Hunter was surrounded by family members, including his stepmother Jill Biden, wife Melissa Cohen Biden, his younger half-sister Ashley Biden, and eldest daughter Naomi Biden. Their presence highlighted the personal toll this case has taken on the Biden family.
Testimonies from Hunter’s past romantic partners painted a grim picture of his life during the period in question. Zoe Kestan, a dancer who dated Hunter in 2018, described his near-constant crack cocaine usage. Kathleen Buhle, Hunter’s first wife, testified that his substance abuse and infidelity led to their divorce. Hallie Biden, the widow of Hunter’s brother Beau Biden and his former romantic partner, also took the stand. She admitted to using crack cocaine with Hunter and expressed regret over her actions during their tumultuous relationship.
Hunter’s previous relationship with Hallie was especially poignant. She testified that she feared Hunter was suicidal and, in a moment of panic, threw his gun into a dumpster after finding it in his car. Her testimony added a deeply personal dimension to the case, highlighting the destructive impact of addiction on their lives.
The investigation into Hunter Biden began in 2018, led by Trump-appointed U.S. Attorney David Weiss. Weiss continued the investigation under President Biden’s administration, and was later elevated to special counsel status by Attorney General Merrick Garland. In September 2023, a federal grand jury indicted Hunter on three counts related to the firearm possession.
Joe Biden has committed to respecting the outcome of his son’s legal battles, publicly stating that he will not use his presidential power to pardon Hunter. As Hunter Biden awaits sentencing, this case serves as a potent reminder of the rule of law and the importance of accountability, regardless of one’s status or connections. The implications of this conviction will undoubtedly resonate through political and legal spheres for years to come.