Hunter Biden Accused in U.S. Criminal Tax Case Over Romanian Payments

Prosecutors allege Hunter Biden received payments from Romanian businessman Gabriel Popoviciu, aiming to influence U.S. government agencies amid a criminal probe in Romania. The trial is set for Sept. 9. Biden pleaded not guilty. Charged in December 2022 for tax evasion, he also faces other legal issues.

In a significant development, U.S. prosecutors have accused Hunter Biden of accepting payments from a Romanian businessman in an effort to influence American governmental agencies. The claims, linked to Biden's employment for the businessman, Gabriel Popoviciu, emerged during Wednesday's court filing in Los Angeles. Hunter Biden, son of U.S. President Joe Biden, is set to face trial on tax evasion charges come September 9, a charge to which he has pled not guilty.

The accusation roots back to late 2015 when Hunter Biden was allegedly hired by Popoviciu, who aimed to sway U.S. policies while under criminal scrutiny in Romania. Reports suggest Biden's work for Popoviciu involved legal services and lobbying, leading to concerns about potential political implications for his father.

Hunter Biden's legal troubles are mounting, with earlier charges of lying about drug use during a 2018 gun purchase and failing to pay $1.4 million in taxes. His defense team and representatives from the White House have yet to comment on the latest allegations. Meanwhile, Popoviciu remains unreachable for statements.

(With inputs from agencies.)