Larry Hoover testifies in court demanding early release from life sentences

CHICAGO — Gangster Disciples founder Larry Hoover was in court Thursday, testifying via video feed from a supermax prison in Colorado in hopes of qualifying for a parole program that would free him from multiple life sentences.

Wearing a tan long-sleeved shirt, glasses and a gray beard, Hoover appeared over monitors at the Dirksen Federal Building in Chicago.

“I’m a very different person than the man who went to prison in 1997,” Hoover said. “I’m very reflective here at ADX. You are locked up for at least 21 hours a day.

“I have no desire to lead the GDs or be involved in any criminal activity. I am past that part of my life.”

Hoover and his defense team hoped to convince the Illinois court to grant him parole through a special program recently passed by Congress known as the “First Step Act,” which opens the door to parole for certain rehabilitated prisoners.

But the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Northern District of Illinois firmly opposed Hoover’s parole Thursday, arguing that he still claims leadership when it comes to the Gangster Disciples, or GDs for short.

In court, federal prosecutor Julia Schwartz argued that Hoover allegedly did more damage to the city of Chicago than any defendant who came through Dirksen.

In Thursday’s government filing, The United States of America v. Larry Hoover, federal officials said: “Hoover has more than earned his life sentence, and he is not the type of defendant. Congress intended to take advantage of enacting the first step. In fact, if convicted today, Hoover would receive the same life sentence.

But after Thursday’s hearing, Hoover’s loved ones and supporters argued that he is a changed man and could do much good if released.

“It was good to hear his voice. It sounds like he was a little nervous, but it’s his life he’s dealing with,” said Larry Hoover Jr., Hoover’s son.

“He is not associated with the gang and has not been for decades,” said Jennifer Bonjean, one of Hoover’s attorneys. “But he probably has insights into how we can improve the lives of young people so they don’t turn to gangs.”

The two sides will appear in federal court again next month, where Federal Judge John Robert Blakely wants to hear more arguments from both sides about exactly how many individuals lost their lives as a direct result of Hoover’s actions before making a decision.