The trial for Hunter Biden is tentatively scheduled to begin on June 20 with jury selection. U.S. District Judge Mark Scarsi of Los Angeles rejected Hunter Biden’s bid to dismiss federal tax charges, amounting to over $1.4 million in tax avoidance, on Monday. The defendant claimed that prosecutors were politically motivated by pressure from Republicans, but Judge Scarsi found no factual evidence to support these claims.
Hunter Biden, who is 54 years old, pleaded not guilty in January to three felony and six misdemeanor charges related to his business dealings and failure to pay $1.4 million in taxes between 2016 and 2019. He reportedly spent millions on drugs, escorts, exotic cars, and other luxury items during this time.
Despite his attorney’s assertions that Hunter Biden paid the taxes and is only being prosecuted due to his family ties, he could face up to 17 years in prison if convicted on all charges. Additionally, he is facing separate criminal charges in a federal court in Delaware for allegedly purchasing a handgun while using illegal drugs. He has pleaded not guilty in that case as well, with a potential trial date set for June 3.
These legal battles come amidst a contentious presidential election year, with Hunter Biden’s father, Joe Biden, and Donald Trump both facing significant political challenges. The upcoming trial will be closely watched as it unfolds in the months leading up to the November election.
Jill McLaughlin and Reuters contributed to this report.
