Former FBI Informant Pleads Guilty

WASHINGTON (Reuters) – A former FBI informant, Alexander Smirnov, pleaded guilty on Monday for creating a false record regarding U.S. President Joe Biden and his son Hunter's alleged dealings with a Ukrainian energy company.

He entered the plea in federal court in Los Angeles, with special counsel David Weiss overseeing the prosecution. In addition to the false record charge, Smirnov admitted to tax evasion as documented in court filings.

Originally set for trial next month, Smirnov reached a plea agreement with prosecutors that recommends a prison sentence of four to six years.

Court documents revealed that Smirnov fabricated a claim stating that Joe Biden and Hunter Biden had each received $5 million in bribes from executives at Burisma Holdings, the Ukrainian energy firm where Hunter served on the board.

Weiss had also investigated Hunter Biden’s business dealings, resulting in Hunter's conviction on gun and tax charges. Joe Biden pardoned his son last month.

Smirnov’s fabricated claim was noted by the FBI during its investigation into Hunter Biden, which led to the charge against him. This claim was also a significant element in the Republican-led impeachment efforts against Joe Biden regarding his son’s business activities.

The lawyer representing Smirnov did not immediately reply for comments. Sentencing is scheduled for January 8.