Hunter Biden's Federal Gun Case Trial Begins: Key Facts to Know

Hunter Biden's highly anticipated federal gun crime trial has commenced in Delaware, drawing widespread attention. The trial, which could last for weeks, revolves around charges of false statements in a firearm purchase and possession by an unlawful user of controlled substances.

Hunter Biden, the son of President Joe Biden, is facing serious criminal charges in a federal gun case that has captivated the nation's attention. The trial, which began in Delaware on Monday, comes amidst a series of legal challenges for Hunter Biden.

1. **Serious Charges:** Hunter Biden stands accused of three charges: making false statements in a firearm purchase, making false statements related to information required from a licensed firearm dealer, and possession of a firearm by a person who is an unlawful user of or addicted to a controlled substance.

2. **Potential Sentence:** If found guilty on all counts, Hunter Biden could face a maximum sentence of 25 years in prison. Each count also carries a possible fine of $250,000 and three years of supervised release.

3. **Firearm Purchase Indictment:** The indictment alleges that on October 12, 2018, Hunter Biden purchased a Colt Cobra revolver and knowingly made false statements on the firearm purchase application, claiming he was not an unlawful user or addicted to any controlled substances.

4. **Defense Strategy:** Hunter Biden's defense is predicated on his struggle with drug addiction at the time of the firearm purchase. The defense argues that Hunter Biden's addiction negates the need for the prosecution to prove his actual use of drugs at the time of purchase.

5. **Controversial Defense Tactics:** Fox News legal analyst Gregg Jarrett has described Hunter Biden's defense strategy as "crazy," noting that Hunter Biden wrote a book admitting his drug addiction during the time in question. Jarrett argues that this admission incriminates him.

6. **Family Members Present:** First Lady Jill Biden, Hunter Biden's stepmother, and his sister, Ashley Biden, were present on the first day of the trial. President Biden has not yet announced his attendance plans.

7. **Salacious Evidence Barred:** Judge Maryellen Noreika has ruled that the prosecution cannot use certain salacious evidence in the trial, including references to Hunter Biden's U.S. Navy discharge and his child support case for an out-of-wedlock daughter.

8. **Additional Criminal Charges:** Hunter Biden is also facing federal tax charges in California, including tax evasion allegations. A trial in that case is scheduled to begin later this month.

9. **Second Amendment Challenge:** Hunter Biden's defense may attempt to challenge the Second Amendment despite his father's advocacy for stricter gun laws.

10. **Jury Selection Begins:** The trial began with jury selection, a process that could take several days. The jury will ultimately decide the outcome of the case based on the evidence presented.