Hunter Biden sues the IRS over tax disclosures after agent testimony

Hunter Biden has taken legal action against the Internal Revenue Service (IRS), filing a lawsuit on Monday. In his suit, he alleges that two IRS agents, who claimed interference in his case, improperly shared his personal tax information. This legal battle unfolds amidst mounting legal and political challenges, particularly with the approaching 2024 election.

The crux of the lawsuit centers on the assertion that the agents deliberately targeted and attempted to embarrass Mr. Biden. Hunter Biden contends that the federal whistleblower protections invoked by these agents do not encompass the sharing of confidential information during press interviews and congressional testimony.

This legal move occurs within the context of an ongoing investigation into Hunter Biden, which is playing out against a highly politicized backdrop. Notably, this includes an impeachment inquiry targeting his father, President Joe Biden.

Recently, Hunter Biden faced federal firearms charges, alleging that he provided false information about his drug use to purchase and possess a firearm in October 2018. His defense team has indicated their intention to vigorously contest these charges, potentially leading to a consequential trial as the 2024 election looms.

The civil lawsuit, filed in Washington, primarily addresses the unauthorized disclosures of specific tax information related to the years under investigation, as well as deductions and allegations of tax liability. It’s important to note that the lawsuit does not challenge the investigation itself but aims to ensure compliance with federal tax and privacy laws. Additionally, it seeks to prevent the dissemination of unverified claims and the unlawful disclosure of Hunter Biden’s tax information.

IRS supervisory special agent Greg Shapley and another agent, Joe Ziegler, have testified before Congress, alleging a pattern of delayed investigative steps in the Hunter Biden case. They have denied any political motivations but raised concerns about the authority of Delaware U.S. Attorney David Weiss, the prosecutor overseeing the investigation. Weiss, appointed during the Trump administration, disputes these claims, and Attorney General Merrick Garland has affirmed his complete authority.

Notably, Weiss was recently granted special counsel status, conferring broad authority to investigate and report his findings. Hunter Biden had previously been expected to enter a guilty plea on misdemeanor tax evasion charges as part of a plea deal, which also encompassed the firearm-related charge. However, this agreement fell apart in court after facing scrutiny, with some critics characterizing it as a “sweetheart deal.”

As of now, neither the IRS nor the legal representatives for the two agents have provided immediate comments on the matter.

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