CHICAGO – Infamous Chicago street gang leader Larry Hoover had his prison sentence commuted Wednesday by President Donald Trump.
What we know:
Hoover, 73, is the co-founder of the Gangster Disciples, a Chicago street gang, and is serving a life sentence at a supermax prison in Colorado, the Associated Press reports. His commutation was announced Wednesday and was confirmed by a White House official who wished to remain anonymous.
He has been serving a life sentence for a 1970s murder conviction, as well as an additional life sentence for running a criminal enterprise from behind bars in the 1990s.
According to Hoover’s attorney, he’s spent nearly 30 years in solitary confinement.
Hoover sought a new chance at freedom late last year through a resentencing request under the First Step Act — a 2018 law signed by Trump that allows certain sentencing reforms to be applied retroactively, according to a previous FOX 32 report.
What they’re saying:
“The Courts have demonstrated a complete unwillingness to consider Mr. Hoover’s considerable growth and complete rehabilitation. Despite the Court’s unwillingness to do the right thing, Mr. Hoover has been able to keep his voice alive through the incredible work of many advocates and supporters. Thankfully, Mr. Hoover’s pleas were heard by President Trump who took action to deliver justice for Mr. Hoover. We are thrilled to see that Mr. Hoover will be released from Federal Custody,” a statement from Hoover’s attorneys reads in part.
What’s next:
We’ve learned Hoover will likely be transferred back to the Illinois Department of Corrections. Sources close to Gov. J.B. Pritzker said the governor is unlikely to commute his 200-year state sentence.
This is a developing story and we’ll bring more updates as they become available.
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