ICYMI: Hunter Biden becomes first sitting US president’s son to be convicted

Hunter, US President Joe Biden’s son, has been found guilty on all three federal felony gun charges.

The 54-year-old had worked as a lawyer and a lobbyist abroad, including in China and Ukraine. He was discharged from the US Navy in 2014 after testing positive for cocaine.

The US Justice Department had initiated an investigation into whether he made false statements on paperwork used to purchase a firearm in 2018.

The law prevents drug addicts from owning firearms.

A federal jury found Hunter guilty on Tuesday, concluding that he violated the laws.

The first two counts were for lying about his drug use on a federal background check form, and the third count was for possessing a gun while addicted to, or using illegal drugs.

Hunter could face up to 25 years in prison and a fine of up to $750,000 at sentencing, though he likely will receive far less as a first-time offender.

The special counsel said the case was “not just about addiction” but about the “illegal choices” he made while he was using drugs.

Though his crimes predate Biden’s tenure, the conviction marks the first time a president’s son has been found guilty of a crime during their father’s term in office.

In a statement, Hunter Biden said he was disappointed by the guilty verdict but grateful for his family’s love.

Expressing support for his son, Biden said he would “respect the judicial process”.

“As I said last week, I am the President, but I am also a dad,” Biden said in a statement.

“Jill and I love our son, and we are so proud of the man he is today. So many families who have had loved ones battle addiction understand the feeling of pride seeing someone you love come out the other side and be so strong and resilient in recovery.”

Biden has also previously reiterated that he would exercise the power of presidential pardon on his son.