A federal jury in Wilmington, Delaware, began deliberations on Monday, June 10, 2024, after closing arguments in the historic trial of Hunter Biden, the president's son.
Hunter Biden, 54, faces three felony charges related to an October 2018 purchase of a Colt Cobra revolver.
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He allegedly lied on a federal form by stating he was not using or addicted to illegal drugs.
Prosecutor Leo Wise emphasized that "no one is above the law" and defended the presentation of deeply personal evidence about the defendant's substance abuse history.
"The evidence was personal, it was ugly, and it was overwhelming. It was also absolutely necessary," Wise said.
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The defense argued that the Department of Justice failed to prove active drug use during the specific 11-day period Hunter Biden owned the firearm.
Defense attorney Abbe Lowell said, "It's time to end this case," and challenged the interpretation of text messages and drug recovery status.
If convicted on all three counts, Hunter Biden faces a maximum penalty of 25 years in prison and a fine of up to $750,000.
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However, legal experts note that first-time offenders rarely receive the maximum sentence.
