The son of US President Joe Biden, accused of tax fraud, pleaded not guilty in court in Los Angeles on Thursday. If convicted, Biden faces – at least theoretically – a long prison sentence.
The next hearing date was set for March 27. Judge Mark Scarsi aims for the trial to begin on June 20. Hunter Biden remains at large under certain circumstances. However, he is not allowed to possess firearms or use alcohol or drugs.
Accusation of tax evasion
The former lawyer, lobbyist and businessman was indicted in December. He is accused of, among other things, nine counts of evading federal taxes for years. The indictment states that the president’s son failed to pay at least $1.4 million (nearly €1.3 million) in federal taxes for the tax years 2016 through 2019.
“Instead of paying his taxes, the defendant spent millions of dollars on an extravagant lifestyle,” the indictment said. If convicted, Biden faces – at least theoretically – a long prison sentence.
The president’s son spoke openly about his past drug addiction
Hunter Biden was already charged with illegal gun possession in mid-September. He is accused of briefly possessing a revolver in 2018, even though he was prohibited from doing so as a drug user. Biden, who has spoken openly about his past drug addiction, also pleaded not guilty in this trial.
The president’s son is not only in the crosshairs of the judiciary, but also of opposition Republicans. They accuse him of exploiting his father’s important position as Barack Obama’s vice president in the past for business in Ukraine and China.
Democrats: campaign against senior Biden
The accusations are at the center of the impeachment proceedings against the president, which the opposition party is pursuing. However, so far they have not been able to provide any evidence of any wrongdoing by Joe Biden. Democrats accuse Republicans of a political maneuver to damage the incumbent president before the presidential elections in November.
Source: Krone
I am Wallace Jones, an experienced journalist. I specialize in writing for the world section of Today Times Live. With over a decade of experience, I have developed an eye for detail when it comes to reporting on local and global stories. My passion lies in uncovering the truth through my investigative skills and creating thought-provoking content that resonates with readers worldwide.
