Judge: No Evidence from Biden Lawyers That Tax Charges are Political
TL/DR –
Hunter Biden’s lawyers have asked a federal judge to dismiss the nine tax charges filed against him, arguing that the prosecutors made errors and were influenced by politics. If the dismissal requests are rejected, Biden could face trial in June, which could impact President Biden’s reelection campaign. His lawyers argue that Hunter Biden has already repaid the unpaid taxes with interest and contend that the political controversy surrounding his legal troubles has led the Justice Department to bring more serious charges against him than are warranted.
Hunter Biden Lawyers Request Dismissal of Tax Charges
Lawyers for Hunter Biden called upon a federal judge to dismiss nine tax charges against him, arguing that prosecutors mishandled facts and let politics impact their decisions.
Hunter Biden Could Face Trial in June
If U.S. District Judge Mark Scarsi rejects the dismissal requests and no deal is agreed upon with prosecutors, Biden could face trial in June—amid his father’s reelection campaign.
Republicans Criticize Hunter Biden’s Legal Troubles
Republicans have highlighted Biden’s legal woes, indicating corruption within the Biden family while accusing the Justice Department of lax prosecution. Biden’s lawyers maintain that their client has repaid the unpaid taxes with interest and argue that political pressure has led to undue charges.
Prosecutors Deny Misconduct Claims
Prosecutors consistently deny these misconduct allegations. Judge Scarsi did not disclose his decisions on Biden’s nine motions, but will rule by April 17. He cast doubt on the claim that the indictment is due to “selective and vindictive” prosecution.
Hunter Biden’s Attorney Claims Excessive Charges
Hunter Biden’s attorney, Abbe Lowell, argued in court that the case against his client should not have escalated to felony charges. Months after a nearly finalized plea agreement publicly fell apart, special counsel David Weiss charged Biden with three felonies and six misdemeanors. The allegations include unpaid federal taxes of at least $1.4 million from 2016 to 2019.
Pressure Campaign Claimed
Lowell argued that the increased charges were due to pressure from Republicans and IRS whistleblowers. The judge asked for more concrete evidence beyond the timeline of the plea deal’s collapse and the following charges.
Prosecutors Refute All Claims
All claims made by Biden’s defense have been rebutted by prosecutors, including the argument that the charges should not have been filed in California due to Biden’s residency, and that the statute of limitations for some of the charges had expired.
Judge to Ignore Politics and Personal Attacks
Judge Scarsi has pledged to ignore politics and personal attacks, focusing only on the facts and law. He will consider all requests thoroughly and make his ruling by April 17.
—
Read More US News