Following President Biden's comprehensive pardon shielding his son, Hunter Biden, from prosecution for any offenses committed between January 1, 2014, and December 1, 2024, the federal judge overseeing Hunter's gun trial has ended further court proceedings. U.S. Judge Maryellen Noreika in Delaware cited the presidential pardon as the reason for halting the proceedings on Tuesday. While Hunter's legal team requested a full dismissal, Judge Noreika stopped short of that action. This summer, a Delaware jury had found Hunter guilty on three federal felony firearm charges. President Biden justified the pardon by criticizing what he called an unfair and politically motivated investigation and prosecution of his son, leading to what he termed a "miscarriage of justice." He stated that Hunter was targeted solely because of his familial connection. This pardon contradicts President Biden's previous assurances not to pardon his son and has drawn criticism for potentially damaging public trust in the Justice Department. The pardon also covers Hunter's guilty plea on tax evasion charges in California. The judge in that case, Judge Mark Scarsi, has yet to decide whether to terminate or fully dismiss the proceedings.

President Biden and son Hunter Biden walking towards Marine One. (AP Photo/Susan Walsh, File)

Hunter Biden during his trial on felony gun charges in June 2024. (Anna Moneymaker/Getty Images)