Wilmington, Delaware – In a significant development at Hunter Biden’s trial on gun-related charges, Hallie Biden, Hunter’s sister-in-law and former romantic partner, took the stand on Thursday. Her testimony centered on her belief that Hunter was using crack cocaine around the time he purchased a pistol in the fall of 2018.
Key Testimony on Drug Use and Gun Purchase
Text Messages and Evidence: Federal prosecutors presented a series of text messages exchanged between Hallie and Hunter Biden in October 2018. In these texts, Hunter mentioned he was “waiting for a dealer named Mookie” and described himself as “sleeping on a car smoking crack.” This evidence is crucial for prosecutors as they attempt to prove Hunter was actively using drugs when he bought the Colt revolver on October 12, 2018.
Hallie’s Observations: Hallie testified that on October 23, 2018, the day she found and disposed of the gun, Hunter appeared as though he might have been using drugs. She described him as “tired, exhausted, [and] looked like he hadn’t slept.” During her cleaning of his truck, she found remnants of crack cocaine and drug paraphernalia, along with the firearm.
Disposal of the Gun: In a moment of panic, Hallie decided to dispose of the gun by placing it in a leather pouch and then a bag, which she threw into a garbage can at Janssen’s Market, a high-end grocery store in Wilmington. She acknowledged this action was “a stupid idea” driven by her panic at the time.
Context and Additional Testimonies
Relationship Background: Hallie Biden was previously married to Hunter’s brother, Beau, who passed away in 2015. She later became romantically involved with Hunter. During her testimony, she also revealed that Hunter introduced her to crack cocaine, which she began using during their relationship. “It was a terrible experience that I went through, and I’m embarrassed and I’m ashamed and I regret that period of my life,” she confessed.
Prosecutors’ Strategy: Hallie is the third former romantic partner of Hunter Biden to testify. On Wednesday, Hunter’s ex-wife and another woman detailed his crack cocaine abuse. However, neither could confirm his drug use at the specific time of the gun purchase and possession.
Defense Arguments: Hunter Biden’s attorney, Abbe Lowell, argued that Hunter had recently completed a rehab program when he bought the gun and believed he was not addicted at that time. During cross-examination, Lowell questioned Hallie’s recollection of events, highlighting inconsistencies and her uncertainty about specific details. He also pointed out that Hallie did not witness Hunter using drugs on the day in question.
Legal Implications and Ongoing Proceedings
Charges: Hunter Biden faces three federal felonies for allegedly lying about his drug use when purchasing the firearm and illegally possessing the gun for less than two weeks. Special counsel David Weiss is leading the prosecution.
Continuing Trial: The trial continues as both sides present their evidence and arguments. The outcome could have significant legal ramifications for Hunter Biden and potential political implications given his father’s position as President.
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