The judge in Delaware has officially dismissed the case against Hunter Biden just two days after President Joe Biden issued his son a blanket pardon. "In the absence of binding precedent" for a case that had yet to reach sentencing, "all proceedings in this case are hereby terminated," U.S. District Judge Maryellen Noreika stated in a brief docket entry Tuesday.
The New York Times reported that President Biden granted his son a "full and unconditional pardon" on Sunday evening. The move follows months of speculation, during which the Biden administration maintained that no pardon would be issued for Hunter Biden's federal gun and tax crimes.
The pardon has sparked political debate, with critics arguing it undermines the judicial process, while supporters claim it is a necessary step to move forward. Some legal experts suggest the dismissal of charges could set a precedent for future cases involving high-profile individuals.
Judge Noreika's decision means that all pending legal proceedings and sentencing actions related to Hunter Biden's previous guilty pleas are now voided. The dismissal comes as a relief to the Biden family, yet it fuels ongoing discussions regarding political influence on the judicial system.
While President Biden continues to face scrutiny over the pardon decision, White House officials have reiterated that the president's actions were consistent with his constitutional authority and aimed at ensuring justice and fairness.
For more updates on this developing story, visit CNN Politics.
