Hunter Biden, son of President Joe Biden, has been found guilty of three federal gun charges after a 12-member jury in Wilmington, Delaware, unanimously convicted him. The charges include lying on a federal gun form, lying to a gun dealer about his illegal drug use, and unlawfully possessing a firearm in October 2018. The verdict came after approximately three hours of jury deliberation.
During the week-long trial, multiple witnesses testified about Hunter Biden's struggle with crack cocaine addiction from 2015 to 2018. Prosecutors focused on Hunter's purchase of a firearm during this period of addiction, arguing that he knowingly lied on the gun form, which asks if the applicant is an unlawful user of, or addicted to, controlled substances.
Hunter Biden expressed gratitude for the support from his family and friends, stating he is "more grateful than disappointed" by the outcome. In a statement, he said that "Recovery is possible by the grace of God, and I am blessed to experience that gift one day at a time."
President Joe Biden affirmed his respect for the judicial process, stating, “Jill and I love our son, and we are so proud of the man he is today. We will continue to support Hunter and the rest of our family with our love and support.” President Biden has ruled out the possibility of pardoning his son.
The charges carry a maximum sentence of 25 years in prison and fines of up to $750,000, though first-time nonviolent offenders typically receive less severe punishments. Sentencing will be determined at a later date.
The trial elicited varied political reactions, with some Republicans viewing it as overdue accountability. Hunter Biden's legal team has indicated plans to appeal the verdict.