Former Mob Prosecutor Backs Release of Gangster Disciples Founder

John Gleeson argues Larry Hoover has matured and poses no public threat after 50 years in prison.

Apr. 9, 2026 at 4:35pm

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An extreme close-up photograph of a prison cell door lock, capturing the harsh, gritty details of the metal and mechanism under dramatic lighting, conveying a sense of the high-stakes decision facing the parole board.The fate of a former gang leader's freedom hangs in the balance as a parole board weighs his clemency request.Chicago Today

Gangster Disciples founder Larry Hoover is getting support from a former New York mob prosecutor, John Gleeson, as he petitions an Illinois parole board for his release. Gleeson, who previously prosecuted mob boss John Gotti, told the Illinois Prisoner Review Board that the 75-year-old Hoover has matured and shown genuine remorse for his crimes during his five decades in prison.

Why it matters

Hoover's release would be a significant milestone, as he was a powerful figure in the Gangster Disciples criminal organization. However, prosecutors argue his past crimes and potential influence, even at an older age, still pose a threat to public safety.

The details

Gleeson joined Hoover's wife, Winndye, and other supporters in addressing the three-member parole board panel in downtown Chicago. 'Larry Hoover poses no risk of danger to the community,' Gleeson said, as cited by the Chicago Sun-Times. Prosecutors, including Assistant Cook County State's Attorney Enrique Abraham, argued against clemency, pointing to Hoover's role in ordering the 1973 killing of William 'Pooky' Young as evidence of his willingness to protect his criminal enterprise.

  • Hoover has been in prison for over 50 years.
  • Gleeson addressed the Illinois Prisoner Review Board on April 7, 2026.
  • Hoover was previously granted federal clemency in 2025 for a drug conspiracy conviction.

The players

Larry Hoover

The 75-year-old founder of the Gangster Disciples criminal organization, who has been in prison for over 50 years and is petitioning for release.

John Gleeson

A former federal prosecutor in New York who previously prosecuted mob boss John Gotti, and is now part of Hoover's legal team supporting his release.

Winndye Hoover

Larry Hoover's wife, who spoke in support of his release before the Illinois Prisoner Review Board.

Enrique Abraham

An Assistant Cook County State's Attorney who argued against granting Hoover clemency, citing the severity of his past crimes and the potential threat he still poses.

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What they’re saying

“'Larry Hoover poses no risk of danger to the community.'”

— John Gleeson, Former New York mob prosecutor

“'He's not a monster. His family loves him.'”

— Winndye Hoover, Larry Hoover's wife

What’s next

The Illinois Prisoner Review Board will decide whether to recommend Hoover's release to Governor JB Pritzker.

The takeaway

Hoover's potential release after over 50 years in prison highlights the complex debate around criminal justice reform, rehabilitation, and public safety, as a former powerful gang leader seeks clemency.