Hunter Biden is currently facing a historic criminal gun trial in federal court in Wilmington, Delaware. He faces three felony firearm offenses related to the purchase of a revolver in 2018. Despite pleading not guilty, the prosecution is working to prove that Hunter Biden lied on a federal firearm form by stating he was not an unlawful user of a firearm or addicted to controlled substances. This trial marks the first time in U.S. history that a sitting president’s child is on trial, adding to its significance.
Hunter Biden’s defense team is banking on the possibility of a hung jury due to the sympathy some jurors may have for his substance abuse issues. While not denying his history of alcohol and drug addiction, the defense argues that Hunter Biden was not using crack cocaine at the time of the gun purchase in 2018. The prosecution, on the other hand, is seeking to prove that Hunter Biden was addicted to crack cocaine before, during, and after the purchase of the handgun, presenting evidence such as trace amounts of cocaine on the gun’s pouch and witness testimonies regarding his drug use.
Key witnesses in the trial include Hunter Biden’s former girlfriend, Zoe Kestan, who testified about his drug habits and attempts to get sober, as well as his ex-wife, Kathleen Buhle, who recounted discovering a crack pipe at their home and participating in couples therapy before their marriage ended. Hunter Biden’s sister-in-law-turned-girlfriend, Hallie Biden, also played a crucial role in the trial by testifying about their relationship, drug use, and how she disposed of the gun for fear of Hunter Biden harming himself or others.
The trial also featured evidence such as banking information showing cash withdrawals often used in drug deals, text messages referencing drugs and drug deals, and audio book excerpts from Hunter’s memoir, narrated by him. The defense argues that Hallie Biden’s testimony may not prove definitively that Hunter was conducting a drug deal or using crack cocaine at specific times, leading to questions about his addiction. The prosecution, however, believes they have presented a strong case against Hunter Biden and are hopeful for a conviction.
Hunter Biden could potentially testify in his criminal trial, with his defense team considering calling him to the stand following a weekend decision. The trial in Delaware and a tax case in California highlight the legal challenges facing Hunter Biden, who has denied the charges in both cases. The outcome of the gun trial and the potential for a hung jury or acquittal will be crucial in determining the legal consequences and public perception surrounding Hunter Biden. The focus on substance abuse issues, family dynamics, and the influence of the Biden family adds complexity to a case that has garnered significant attention.
