“`html
Hunter Biden Examination: Latest Status (January 20, 2026)
Table of Contents
As of January 20, 2026, the federal investigation into Hunter Biden remains ongoing, though considerably narrowed in scope following a series of court rulings and the expiration of the statute of limitations on several key charges. The focus now centers on potential tax violations and foreign lobbying concerns.
the Delaware Investigation and Charges
The initial investigation, led by U.S.Attorney David Weiss, began in 2018 and centered on Hunter Biden‘s business dealings in Ukraine, China, and other countries. In June 2023, a plea deal was reached where Biden would plead guilty to two misdemeanor tax charges and avoid a felony gun charge through a diversion agreement. However, Judge Maryellen noreika rejected the plea deal, citing concerns about the scope of immunity it would grant Biden from future prosecution.
Following the rejection of the plea deal,a grand jury indicted Hunter Biden on three felony charges in September 2023: making false statements during a firearm purchase,illegally possessing a firearm while being an unlawful user of or addicted to a controlled substance,and conspiring to do so. The case proceeded to trial in june 2024.
Verdict: On June 5, 2024, Hunter Biden was convicted on all three felony counts related to the firearm charges. Sentencing is scheduled for August 2024, though appeals are expected.
Tax Investigation and Current Status
Separate from the firearm charges, the investigation into Hunter Biden’s taxes continues.David Weiss was appointed as Special Counsel in August 2023 to oversee the investigation. The core of this investigation revolves around allegations that Biden failed to pay taxes on over $1.4 million in income between 2016 and 2019.
While several potential charges related to earlier tax years have passed the statute of limitations, the Justice Department is reportedly focusing on potential violations related to 2018 and 2019. As of January 20,2026,no further indictments have been filed related to the tax investigation,but the Special counsel’s office has indicated the investigation remains active. CNN’s live coverage provides ongoing updates on the investigation.
Foreign Lobbying Concerns
The investigation also examined whether Hunter Biden violated the Foreign Agents registration Act (FARA) by failing to properly register as a foreign agent for his work with Burisma,a Ukrainian energy company,and other foreign entities.
In Febuary 2024,the Justice Department dropped the FARA investigation, citing insufficient evidence to prove a criminal violation. however,Congressional Republicans continue to investigate these matters through separate inquiries.
Key Figures and Institutions
David Weiss: U.S. Attorney for Delaware and Special Counsel overseeing the Hunter Biden investigation. Official Justice Department biography
Maryellen Noreika: Judge for the District of Delaware who oversaw the initial plea deal and subsequent trial. District of Delaware Court Information
Burisma Holdings: Ukrainian energy company at the center of much of the scrutiny regarding Hunter Biden’s foreign business dealings. Burisma Official Website
Department of Justice (DOJ): The primary federal agency conducting the investigation. Official DOJ Website
