Deliberations began on Monday in Hunter Biden’s gun trial as jurors determine the guilt in federal firearms charges against the president’s son related to a revolver purchased during a time when he was reportedly addicted to crack cocaine.
Hunter Biden faces three felonies stemming from the acquisition of the gun in 2018. Prosecutors allege that he provided false information on a federal form by denying illegal drug use or addiction.
Throughout the trial that started last week in Delaware’s federal court, jurors have been presented with emotional testimony from Hunter Biden’s former partners, personal text messages, and images showing him with drug-related items or in compromising positions.
While Hunter Biden has publicly shared his battle with crack cocaine addiction and subsequent recovery over five years ago, the defense argues that he did not view himself as an “addict” at the time he completed the form.
These charges are the first in a series of trials Hunter Biden is facing during his father’s presidential campaign. Another case involves alleged tax evasion amounting to at least $1.4 million, scheduled for trial in September.
In closing arguments, the prosecutor urged jurors to focus on the overwhelming evidence against Hunter Biden, disregarding the presence of the president’s family, including first lady Jill Biden, in the courtroom.
Defense attorney Abbe Lowell countered by stating that prosecutors have not proven their case beyond a reasonable doubt. He emphasized Hunter Biden’s presumption of innocence, despite his prominent last name.
The defense has maintained that Hunter Biden did not consider himself an “addict” during the gun purchase, citing completion of a detox and rehabilitation program in August 2018.
Witnesses did not testify to Hunter Biden using drugs during the 11 days he possessed the gun, according to the defense. The prosecution, on the other hand, argues that text messages following the gun purchase indicate drug-related activities.
Closing arguments wrapped up as the defense rested its case without calling Hunter Biden to testify. As he interacted with his legal team and supporters, he awaited the verdict, smiling and giving a thumbs-up to a well-wisher in the gallery.
Throughout the trial, first lady Jill Biden and other family members have been present in the courtroom to support Hunter. The case sheds light on a tumultuous period in his life following the loss of his brother in 2015.
Jurors have heard testimony from Hunter Biden’s former partners and reviewed personal text messages and images portraying his struggle with addiction. The case has focused on his past drug use and efforts to overcome addiction.
Although the jury heard excerpts from his memoir, “Beautiful Things”, where he details his battle with addiction, Hunter Biden did not specifically address the gun in question.
A critical witness for the prosecution was Beau’s widow, Hallie, who discovered the gun in his possession and discarded it in a grocery store bin after Hunter’s troubling behavior.
President Joe Biden has indicated that he will respect the jury’s decision and has ruled out a pardon for his son. Despite the tumultuous legal battle, the President remains focused on his duties, including international engagements.
If convicted, Hunter Biden could face up to 25 years in prison, although his legal team suggests that first-time offenders typically receive lesser sentences.
Reporting from Washington by Richer. Contributions to this report by Mike Catalini in Wilmington and Colleen Long in Washington from the Associated Press.
