Jury convicts Hunter of lying to purchase a gun while doing illegal drugs
Hunter Biden was convicted on Tuesday of all three felony charges related to his 2018 purchase of a revolver. Prosecutors argued that he lied on a mandatory gun-purchase form by claiming he was not illegally using or addicted to drugs.
Hunter Biden, 54, showed little emotion as the verdict was read in Wilmington, Delaware, after three hours of jury deliberations over two days. He hugged his attorneys, smiled faintly, and kissed his wife, Melissa, before leaving the courtroom with her.
President Joe Biden, in a statement released shortly after the verdict, said he would accept the outcome and “continue to respect the judicial process as Hunter considers an appeal.”
Key Points About Hunter Biden’s Conviction
Jurors found Hunter Biden guilty of lying to a federally licensed gun dealer, falsely claiming on the application that he was not a drug user, and illegally possessing the gun for 11 days.
Hunter Biden’s ex-wife and a former girlfriend testified about finding his crack pipes and other drug paraphernalia.
An exact sentencing date has not been set. Hunter Biden faces up to 25 years in prison, though as a first-time offender, he is unlikely to receive the maximum sentence. It is unclear whether the judge will sentence him to any prison time.
Defense attorney Abbe Lowell stated that they would “continue to vigorously pursue all the legal challenges available.” In a written statement, Hunter Biden expressed disappointment with the outcome but gratitude for the support of his family and friends.
House Speaker responds
House Speaker Mike Johnson took to X to share his take on what happened. “A year ago, Hunter Biden was offered a sweetheart deal that would have allowed him to bypass the justice system on these charges,” Johnson wrote. “Because whistleblowers spoke out and House Republicans sounded the alarm, Hunter was brought to court. Today he was found guilty of all charges. Now it’s time for DOJ to investigate the millions of dollars in payouts from foreign countries looking to curry favor with his father. We will continue to demand accountability for the corrupt business dealings of the Biden family.”
