In a recent development in the ongoing investigation into Hunter Biden, a top official with the DOJ Tax Division has told the House Judiciary Committee that now-Special Counsel David Weiss needed approval from his unit at the Justice Department before bringing charges in the case. The testimony of Acting Deputy Assistant Attorney General Stuart Goldberg before the committee appears to confirm allegations made by IRS whistleblowers that Weiss did not have ultimate authority in bringing charges against Hunter Biden.
Goldberg’s testimony revealed that Weiss, who previously served as the U.S. attorney for Delaware, had to obtain approval from the Tax Division within the Department of Justice before proceeding with charges. This approval process is standard in cases involving felony tax charges. While Weiss had been granted special counsel status, he still needed to go through the Tax Division for approval.
Goldberg explained that the Tax Division has the authority to approve specific charges or provide alternative options. In some cases, the division may send the case back for further work. Additionally, Goldberg clarified that the U.S. Attorney’s Office has the discretion to decide whether or not to bring a case, without needing approval from the Tax Division.
The testimony from Goldberg supports allegations made by IRS whistleblower Gary Shapley that Weiss was limited and marginalized by DOJ officials in making prosecutorial decisions. Shapley also claimed that Weiss had requested special counsel authority but was denied. However, Weiss has since been appointed special counsel.
When asked about the necessity of Tax Division approval in Hunter Biden’s case, Goldberg highlighted that cases with sensitive or significant implications often receive closer supervision. These cases may involve public officials, individuals with noteworthy profiles, or matters that are likely to generate media attention or congressional interest. Goldberg confirmed that the Hunter Biden case fell into this category, requiring ultimate sign-off from his level rather than the chief’s level.
Last month, Weiss charged Hunter Biden with multiple offenses, including making false statements in the purchase of a firearm and possession of a firearm by an unlawful user of a controlled substance. Hunter Biden has pleaded not guilty to all charges.
The revelations in Goldberg’s testimony add further complexity to the ongoing investigation into Hunter Biden. Critics argue that the process of obtaining approval from the Tax Division raises questions about potential political influence in the case. The involvement of top DOJ officials and the sensitive nature of the case have fueled speculation and scrutiny.
Mark Lytle, a prominent commentator, has called for the Delaware prosecutor in the Hunter Biden case to step down following the revelations. Lytle believes that the approval process undermines the integrity of the investigation and raises concerns about impartiality.
The developments in the Hunter Biden case have added fuel to the ongoing political discourse surrounding the Biden family. Republicans and conservative voices have seized on these revelations to question the actions of the Democratic Party and the Biden administration. However, it is important to note that these allegations and testimonies are still subject to investigation and verification.
As the investigation continues, the Hunter Biden case is likely to remain a significant topic of discussion. The outcome of this case could have implications for the Biden administration, as well as broader debates surrounding political influence, law enforcement, and prosecutorial decisions. The public and political landscape will closely watch how this investigation unfolds and whether justice will be served impartially.
