In a historic first, a jury found Hunter Biden, son of US President Joe Biden, guilty on three felony counts related to his 2018 purchase of a handgun while struggling with addiction. President Biden has pledged not to pardon his son or commute his sentence.
Speaking at a G7 summit press conference in Italy, President Biden expressed pride in his son’s overcoming of addiction and described him as “one of the brightest, most decent men I know.” However, he reiterated his commitment to abiding by the jury’s decision and respecting the legal process.
Hunter Biden faces up to 25 years in prison, although jail time is unlikely as a first-time offender. Sentencing is expected to take place in the next few months.
This development comes as President Biden faces a re-election battle against Donald Trump, who recently became the first former president to be convicted of a felony.