Hunter Biden’s request for virtual court appearance shut down by special counsel
Hunter Biden's virtual court appearance request denied by special counsel
In a recent turn of events, Hunter Biden's request to appear virtually in court has been denied by special counsel David Weiss.
This decision comes in light of the serious felony gun charges Hunter is facing.
Details of the court request
Hunter Biden, son of President Biden, recently made a request to appear virtually for his arraignment. This request was made through a letter to U.S. Magistrate Judge Christopher Burke from the District of Delaware.
The letter, penned by Hunter's lawyers, stated that he intended to plead not guilty to the charges against him.
The charges against Hunter include making false statements during the purchase of a firearm, providing false information required by a federal firearms dealer, and possession of a firearm while being an unlawful user of a controlled substance.
Special counsel's opposition
David Weiss, the special counsel, voiced his opposition to Hunter's request in a court filing, Fox News reported.
He stated that the court's order, which allowed virtual proceedings during the pandemic, had expired fifteen months ago.
Weiss emphasized the gravity of the felony gun charges and believed that the court should assess Hunter in person.
Defense's stance
Hunter Biden's attorney, Abbe Lowell, argued for the video conference. He stated that Hunter was not seeking any special treatment.
Since his first court appearance in July, Hunter has complied with all conditions after returning to California.
Lowell also mentioned that a video appearance would reduce the burden on government resources and minimize disruptions, especially considering the Secret Service's involvement in transporting Hunter.
Background of the charges
The current gun charges are the first that Weiss has brought against Hunter since being granted the status of special counsel.
In 2021, Fox News reported an incident from 2018 where a gun owned by Hunter was discarded in a trash can outside a Delaware market.
This incident involved Hallie Biden, widow of President Biden's late son, Beau. She was in a relationship with Hunter at the time and was reported to have thrown Hunter's gun in a dumpster near a school.
Hunter had purchased a gun earlier in October 2018. On the firearm transaction report, he denied being an unlawful user or addict of any controlled substance. It's worth noting that Hunter was discharged from the Navy in 2014 after testing positive for cocaine.
Conclusion
- Hunter Biden's request for a virtual court appearance has been denied.
- The decision was made by special counsel David Weiss due to the seriousness of the felony gun charges.
- Hunter's attorney, Abbe Lowell, argued for the video conference, stating Hunter wasn't seeking special treatment.
- The current gun charges are the first brought against Hunter by Weiss since his appointment as special counsel.
- An incident from 2018 involving a gun owned by Hunter was reported by Fox News in 2021.
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