In a landmark criminal trial, prosecutors detailed their case against Hunter Biden on Tuesday, alleging that the son of President Joe Biden, who struggled with drug addiction, falsified documents to acquire a revolver, underscoring the principle that “no one is above the law.”
Before jurors in federal court in Delaware, attorneys presented opening statements, followed by testimony from the first witness, an FBI agent. Defense counsel, led by Abbe Lowell, suggested that evidence would reveal Hunter Biden’s lack of intent to knowingly violate the law.
This trial marks the first instance of a sitting U.S. president’s child facing such legal scrutiny, with U.S. District Judge Maryellen Noreika presiding. In contrast, former President Donald Trump recently made history as the first former president convicted of a crime.
Prosecutor Derek Hines outlined events from October 2018, contending that Hunter Biden concealed his drug use on a background check form when purchasing the gun. He emphasized the universal application of the law.
Trump’s candidacy for the November election was not directly addressed during the proceedings. Hunter Biden has pleaded not guilty to three felony charges related to drug disclosure and illegal weapon possession.
Lowell urged the jury to examine the evidence closely, asserting that the form’s query only pertained to current addiction status, not past usage, suggesting his client harbored no deceptive intent.
The trial, unfolding in Wilmington, the Bidens’ hometown, occurs amid Trump’s accusations of a politically motivated prosecution by the Justice Department.
U.S. Special Counsel David Weiss, appointed by Trump, spearheaded the case against Hunter Biden, who also faces federal tax charges in California.
The trial is expected to delve into Hunter Biden’s protracted struggle with substance abuse, with text messages and bank records illustrating his awareness of addiction during the gun purchase.
FBI agent Erika Jensen testified about Hunter Biden’s texts and writings on drug use, referencing passages from his autobiography and plans to call his ex-wife and sister-in-law as witnesses.
If convicted on all counts, Hunter Biden faces a maximum of 25 years in prison, though sentences are typically shorter, as per the U.S. Justice Department.
Hunter Biden’s decision to testify remains uncertain, akin to Trump’s choice not to testify in his trial, given the potential risks associated with cross-examination.
