A judge has refused to dismiss a tax case against Hunter Biden, son of President Joe Biden, bringing the case closer to a potential trial. U.S. District Judge Mark Scarsi denied eight motions to dismiss the indictment accusing Hunter Biden of attempting to evade paying $1.4 million in taxes while living a lavish lifestyle.
Hunter Biden has pleaded not guilty to the nine felony and misdemeanor tax offenses filed in Los Angeles. His attorney argued that the prosecution was politically motivated, among other claims, but the judge found little support for these arguments.
The ruling follows a three-hour hearing where Judge Scarsi appeared skeptical of the defense's arguments. Prosecutors countered the defense's claims as far-fetched and the judge dismissed claims related to the timing of the charges, leaks from IRS agents, and the appointment of the special counsel overseeing the case.
In addition to the tax case, Hunter Biden faces charges in Delaware for allegedly lying on a federal form to purchase a gun in 2018. He pleaded not guilty to these charges, which also include illegal possession of the firearm.
Both cases are overseen by special counsel David Weiss, with tentative trials scheduled for June. Defense attorneys are also seeking to have the Delaware gun charges dismissed.
The federal investigation into Hunter Biden had initially led to a plea deal involving misdemeanor tax charges and probation. However, the deal fell apart after a federal judge questioned its validity. If convicted of the tax charges, Hunter Biden could face a maximum of 17 years in prison.
These legal challenges come amidst a backdrop of political tensions, with President Joe Biden seeking re-election in 2024 and facing criticism from Republicans over the handling of his son's cases. The former president, Donald Trump, himself faces multiple criminal charges, including allegations of attempting to overturn the 2020 election results.
