Hunter Biden's Legal Team Accuses Prosecutors of Character Assassination Ahead of Tax Trial

U.S. District Judge Mark C. Scarsi has scheduled jury selection for Hunter Biden's tax evasion trial to commence on September 5, with opening statements expected on September 9. Biden, who faces three felony and six misdemeanor charges related to alleged tax non-compliance during a period of drug addiction, was not present at a recent hearing in Los Angeles. Tensions flared between Biden's attorney, Mark Geragos, and prosecutor Leo Wise as they debated what evidence could be presented to the jury. The prosecution aims to introduce evidence of Biden's extravagant spending, including payments to prostitutes, to demonstrate fraudulent tax deductions. Geragos argued that Biden's past traumas, including the deaths of family members, contributed to his addiction and impaired judgment. However, Judge Scarsi ruled against including details about a tragic car accident that killed Biden's mother and sister, while allowing limited testimony regarding the death of his brother, Beau. The judge encouraged both sides to negotiate on what lifestyle evidence could be introduced. Biden's defense team has accused prosecutors of attempting to conduct a "character assassination" by highlighting salacious details of his lifestyle. They argue that Biden's addiction affected his decision-making, which is central to his defense. The trial will also explore Biden's foreign business dealings, which prosecutors claim reflect his state of mind during the tax years in question. Legal experts suggest that a plea deal may be in Biden's best interest to avoid a lengthy and damaging trial.