Jurors in the criminal case against Hunter Biden resumed deliberations in a federal courthouse in Delaware. The case involves three felonies related to a gun that Hunter Biden purchased in 2018 while allegedly struggling with a crack cocaine addiction. The prosecution presented evidence, including testimony from Hunter Biden’s ex-wife and former girlfriends, to show that he lied on a form when purchasing the gun. Prosecutors argued that Hunter Biden knew he was using drugs and was addicted at the time of the purchase, while the defense maintained that he did not consider himself an addict.
The defense tried to show that Hunter Biden was attempting to turn his life around after completing a rehabilitation program in August 2018. The defense highlighted the positive changes Hunter was making in his life before the gun purchase. However, the prosecution presented text messages in which Hunter Biden mentioned waiting for a drug dealer and smoking crack days after purchasing the gun. Prosecutors also found cocaine residue on the pouch where the gun was stored before being thrown out by Beau Biden’s widow, Hallie.
During closing arguments, the defense urged the jury to consider the lack of direct evidence linking Hunter Biden to drug use during the time he had the gun. Hunter Biden did not testify in his defense and the first lady, Jill Biden, and other family members watched the proceedings from the courtroom gallery. The defense also emphasized the relations between Hallie and another ex-girlfriend with prosecutors, noting their immunity agreements.
The trial has played out in the president’s home state of Delaware, where the Biden family has deep roots. Hunter Biden’s struggles with substance abuse, as well as the family’s connections to the state, have been highlighted throughout the case. Hunter Biden had hoped to resolve the case last year through a deal that would have involved pleading guilty to misdemeanor tax offenses in California. However, the deal fell apart, leading to his indictment in the gun case.
Prosecutors have recommended two years of probation in the event of a guilty plea in the gun case, which carries a maximum sentence of 25 years in prison for the three counts. It remains to be seen what sentence Hunter Biden could face if convicted. The case has attracted attention due to the proximity to the 2024 election and the involvement of a high-profile political figure. The outcome of the trial will have significant implications for Hunter Biden and his relationship with the justice system.
