Joe Biden’s son Hunter Biden to plead not guilty to federal firearms charges

Biden is accused of lying about his drug use when he bought a firearm in October 2018, during a period when he has acknowledged struggling with addiction to crack cocaine. He is accused of keeping the gun for 11 days.

Also read: Joe Biden won’t pardon son Hunter if he is convicted, says White House

The three-count indictment from a special counsel overseeing the case came weeks after the proposed plea deal and puts the case on track toward a possible high-stakes trial as the 2024 election looms.

Also read: Joe Biden’s son hit with gun charges for buying firearms while on drugs

He is asking to enter the plea remotely via video conference, saying that would avoid the costs of Secret Service protection as he travels from his home in California to Delaware, as well as logistical challenges in Wilmington. Prosecutors are expected to oppose that request.

Hunter Biden has also been under investigation for his business dealings, and the special counsel has indicated that tax charges could be filed at some point in Washington or in California, where he lives.

This story has been published from a wire agency feed without modifications to the text. Only the headline has been changed.

Updated: 20 Sep 2023, 08:11 AM IST