In a highly publicized trial, Hunter Biden, the eldest son of President Joe Biden, was found guilty on Tuesday of all three felony counts related to purchasing a handgun while being a user of crack cocaine. The verdict came after a weeklong trial that delved into the younger Biden’s well-documented struggles with addiction.
The 12-member jury deliberated for approximately three hours over two days before reaching their unanimous decision.
President Biden acknowledging the outcome, said, “I will accept the outcome of this case and will continue to respect the judicial process as Hunter considers an appeal.” He reaffirmed his commitment to stand by his son, adding, “Jill and I will always be there for Hunter and the rest of our family with our love and support. Nothing will ever change that.”
The charges stemmed from a 2018 incident in which Hunter Biden falsely stated on a Firearms Transaction Record that he was not an unlawful user of, or addicted to, any controlled substance when purchasing a Colt revolver. Prosecutors presented compelling evidence, including text messages and witness testimony, detailing his ongoing drug use during that period.
While no sentencing date has been set, Hunter Biden faces a maximum of 25 years in prison, although a lesser sentence is expected for a first-time offender. His attorney, Abbe Lowell, expressed disappointment with the verdict but vowed to “vigorously pursue all the legal challenges available.”
In a statement, Hunter Biden expressed gratitude for the support of his family and friends, stating, “Recovery is possible by the grace of God, and I am blessed to experience that gift one day at a time.”
The trial provided a candid glimpse into the personal struggles of the Biden family, with various relatives, including Hunter’s ex-wife Kathleen Buhle and former sister-in-law Hallie Biden, testifying about his addiction and its impact on their relationships.