Jury selection is scheduled to commence on Thursday in Hunter Biden's federal tax trial, following his recent conviction on gun charges. The case, taking place in Los Angeles federal court, alleges that Hunter Biden engaged in a four-year scheme to evade paying over $1.4 million in taxes while earning substantial sums from foreign business entities. Despite his previous conviction for lying on a federal form to purchase a gun, Hunter Biden has pleaded not guilty to the tax-related charges. His defense team plans to argue that his actions were not willful due to his well-documented struggles with substance abuse.
The presiding U.S. District Judge has placed restrictions on what information jurors will be allowed to consider, barring any connections between Hunter Biden's substance abuse issues and past family tragedies. The indictment accuses Hunter Biden of living extravagantly while neglecting his tax obligations, with expenditures on items such as strippers and luxury accommodations. The defense has requested limitations on the presentation of certain expenses, labeling them as character assassination.
Prosecutors are expected to delve into Hunter Biden's overseas business dealings, particularly his work for a Romanian businessman allegedly seeking to influence U.S. government policy during Joe Biden's vice presidency. The defense has criticized the release of details about this work, accusing prosecutors of attempting to sway public opinion and influence the jury pool.
Potential jurors will undergo questioning to assess their ability to serve impartially, including inquiries about their political views, knowledge of the case, personal experiences with substance abuse, tax matters, and perceptions of criminal charges filed for political reasons. A plea deal and diversion agreement that would have averted the trials collapsed in July 2023, leading to the separate gun and tax cases against Hunter Biden.
Sentencing for Hunter Biden's Delaware conviction is slated for November 13, with the possibility of up to 25 years in prison. However, as a first-time offender, he may receive a lesser sentence or avoid incarceration altogether.
