Washington: Hunter Biden, the son of President Joe Biden, pleaded guilty to tax evasion on Thursday. The plea came after he failed to secure a deal with prosecutors, marking a significant moment in a case that has brought embarrassment to the White House.
The 54-year-old Biden admitted to nine counts related to failing to pay $1.4 million in taxes over the past decade. Prosecutors revealed that instead of paying these taxes, Biden spent the money on luxury living, sex workers, and a drug habit.
This plea occurred just as jury selection for his trial was set to begin. Despite an earlier attempt to reach a plea deal to avoid prison, no agreement was finalized, leading Biden to enter his plea in open court.
US District Judge Mark Scarsi has scheduled Biden’s sentencing for December 16. He faces a potential prison sentence of up to 17 years and a fine exceeding $1 million.
The trial was anticipated to delve into the details of a troubled life, which both Biden and his family, including President Biden, have publicly acknowledged. Hunter Biden expressed his desire to avoid further public scrutiny and embarrassment for his family.
In his statement, Biden expressed frustration, saying, “Prosecutors were focused not on justice but on dehumanizing me for my actions during my addiction.”
Earlier this year, Biden was convicted in Delaware for lying about his drug use when purchasing a firearm, a felony that could result in up to 25 years in prison. He has yet to be sentenced for this conviction.
President Biden has the authority to pardon his son but has made it clear that he will not do so. White House Press Secretary Karine Jean-Pierre reiterated this stance, stating, “It is still very much a ‘no’.”
Hunter Biden’s defense team argued that the charges against him were driven by his identity rather than justice. His attorney, Mark Geragos, claimed that the prosecution was an attempt at character assassination.
Biden’s legal team also contended that his tax issues were due to oversights amidst a chaotic life marked by drug addiction and the grief of losing his older brother, Beau, in 2015. Although he has paid the back taxes and penalties, his previous plea deal fell through, leading to ongoing negotiations.
The case has been a focal point for Republicans, who have criticized the handling of Biden’s situation as a sign of preferential treatment. Despite attempts to reach a new plea agreement, prosecutors have remained resolute.
An attempt by Biden to enter an “Alford plea,” admitting guilt while maintaining innocence, was rejected by the court. Prosecutor Leo Wise stated, “Hunter Biden is not innocent, he is guilty.”
In his statement, Biden acknowledged his addiction, stating, “My drug addiction is not an excuse but an explanation for some of my failures.” He expressed gratitude for his family’s support during his recovery, emphasizing his commitment to protecting them from further public humiliation.