In a significant development, Hunter Biden, the only surviving son of President Joe Biden, was found guilty on all three charges related to the possession of a gun while using narcotics. The verdict was reached after only three hours of deliberation.
Hunter Biden was charged with three felonies tied to the possession of a gun while using narcotics. Two of the counts carry maximum prison sentences of 10 years, while the third has a maximum of five years. Each count also carries a maximum fine of $250,000. The jury reached the verdict after only three hours of deliberation.
The Trial
The list of those who were called to testify last week includes Hallie Biden, the wife of Hunter Biden’s late brother, Beau Biden; Gordon Cleveland, the man who sold Hunter Biden the gun at the heart of the case; and Hunter Biden’s daughter Naomi Biden. Hunter Biden did not take the stand.
Aftermath of the Verdict
Following the verdict, Hunter Biden was seen exiting the defense room holding hands with his wife, Melissa Biden-Cohen. First lady Jill Biden followed a few steps behind. Hunter Biden addressed her as “mom” as he helped escort the first lady into the elevator.
In a statement reacting to the verdict, Hunter Biden said, “I am more grateful today for the love and support I experienced this last week from Melissa, my family, my friends, and my community than I am disappointed by the outcome.”
President Biden’s Reaction
President Joe Biden said he accepts the guilty verdict of his son “I will accept the outcome of this case and will continue to respect the judicial process as Hunter considers an appeal,” Biden said in a statement.
The president also expressed his love and pride for his son, stating, “Jill and I love our son, and we are so proud of the man he is today. So many families who have had loved ones battle addiction understand the feeling of pride seeing someone you love come out the other side and be so strong and resilient in recovery.”
What’s Next?
U.S. District Judge Maryellen Noreika will set the sentencing date at a later time. Hunter Biden still faces another federal trial starting Sept. 5 in California for allegedly avoiding taxes.
This verdict adds to President Biden’s distractions ahead of a debate with Trump in a few weeks. The president has stayed away from the courthouse and avoided discussing the trial in public. However, that is likely to change in the coming weeks.