Hunter Biden Set to Change Plea in Federal Tax Case Amid Intensified Legal Scrutiny

Hunter Biden plans to change his not guilty plea in a federal tax case, just as jury selection was about to begin. His legal issues also include a gun charge conviction. The case involves allegations of tax evasion and lavish spending. Restrictions are in place on what jurors can hear about his substance abuse and family tragedies.

In a surprising turn of events, Hunter Biden, son of President Joe Biden, plans to change his not guilty plea in his federal tax case, according to his defense attorney, Abbe Lowell. The decision comes just as jury selection was set to begin and follows his recent conviction on gun charges.

The federal case against Hunter Biden alleges a four-year scheme to avoid paying at least USD 1.4 million in taxes, while earning millions from foreign entities. His legal team argues that his well-documented struggles with alcohol and drug addiction impacted his ability to act 'willfully' in breaking the law.

US District Judge Mark Scarsi has imposed limits on what can be presented to the jury, disallowing connections between Hunter Biden's substance abuse and past family tragedies. Meanwhile, prosecutorial tactics including media coverage and juror questioning will scrutinize potential biases. Sentencing for Hunter Biden's Delaware gun case is scheduled for November 13, potentially resulting in up to 25 years in prison.

(With inputs from agencies.)