A federal jury in Delaware has found Hunter Biden guilty on all three federal felony gun charges he faced, concluding he violated laws that prohibit drug addicts from owning firearms.
The verdict marks the first time a sitting president's immediate family member has been convicted of a crime during their father's term, though the actions occurred before Joe Biden became president.
The jury deliberated for just under three hours before returning guilty verdicts on charges stemming from a revolver Hunter Biden purchased in October 2018.
Charges and Potential Sentence
The first two counts involved lying about his drug use on a federal background check form, while the third was for possessing a firearm while addicted to or using illegal drugs.
Hunter Biden faces up to 25 years in prison and a fine of up to $750,000 at sentencing, but as a first-time offender, he is likely to receive a much lighter sentence.
The judge noted sentencing is typically scheduled about 120 days after a verdict, likely placing the date before the upcoming presidential election.
Reactions from Key Figures
Hunter Biden said he is more grateful for the love and support of his family than disappointed by the outcome.
His attorney, Abbe Lowell, stated they will continue to vigorously pursue all legal challenges.
President Joe Biden expressed ongoing support for his son, saying, "As I said last week, I am the President, but I am also a Dad.
Jill and I love our son, and we are so proud of the man he is today."
Special counsel David Weiss said the case was about illegal choices made during addiction, emphasizing that no one in the country is above the law.
Juror Insights and Potential Appeal
One juror, designated as Juror 10, said the panel focused on the evidence rather than Hunter Biden's lifestyle or political affiliations.
"When you look at that form, 'Are you a drug addict, are you an unlawful user of drugs,' and he said no," the juror explained.
Another juror expressed that Hunter Biden does not belong in jail, suggesting the case felt like a waste of taxpayer dollars since the weapon was in evidence for nearly five years.
Legal commentators suggest Hunter Biden may have grounds for appeal based on a 5th US Circuit Court of Appeals decision that struck down the federal ban on drug users possessing firearms.
