Is Larry Hoover Free?

Larry Hoover is a name deeply connected to the crime history of Chicago and the broader narrative of gang influence in the United States. His name often trends online due to ongoing rumors, social justice campaigns, and political chatter, especially involving former President Donald Trump. This article will explore who Larry Hoover is, his criminal charges, his current status, and whether Trump ever pardoned or freed him.

Who is Larry Hoover?

Larry Hoover was born on November 30, 1950, in Jackson, Mississippi, and moved to Chicago, Illinois, during his early childhood. He is best known as the founder and longtime leader of the Gangster Disciples, a major gang in Chicago. Hoover’s rise began in the 1960s, when he was only a teenager. Under his leadership, the Gangster Disciples grew into one of the most powerful and feared gangs in the Midwest.

Though he later claimed to be promoting education and rehabilitation, authorities and law enforcement argue that he continued to manage gang operations from behind bars for decades.

What Did Larry Hoover Do?

Hoover’s legal troubles started young. At just 19 years old, in 1973, he was convicted of ordering the murder of William Young, a 19-year-old drug dealer accused of stealing from the gang. He was sentenced to 150–200 years in prison for the crime.

However, his troubles didn’t end there. While serving time, he was later indicted on federal drug conspiracy, extortion, and money laundering charges. Authorities alleged that Hoover ran a criminal empire from prison, involving millions of dollars in drug trafficking and other illegal activities.

These federal charges added six life sentences on top of his original murder conviction, essentially ensuring he would remain behind bars for life.

Is Larry Hoover Free?

No, Larry Hoover is not free. As of 2025, he remains incarcerated at the ADX Florence supermax prison in Colorado, one of the most secure prisons in the United States.

Despite many rumors suggesting otherwise, Hoover has not been released or had his sentence commuted.

Did Trump Pardon Larry Hoover?

There is widespread confusion surrounding this topic. Many believe that Donald Trump pardoned Larry Hoover during his presidency or commuted his sentence. This is not true.

During Trump’s time in office, especially toward the end of his term, there was a public campaign by several celebrities, including Kanye West, Kim Kardashian, and rapper Drake, urging Trump to pardon Larry Hoover. However, Trump did not grant a pardon or commute Hoover’s sentence.

In fact, the official White House list of pardons and commutations from Trump’s administration makes no mention of Larry Hoover.

Trump and Larry Hoover: The Connection

The association between Trump and Larry Hoover mostly stems from public advocacy campaigns. In 2018, Kanye West famously visited the White House wearing a “Make America Great Again” hat and brought up Larry Hoover’s name while speaking to Trump. He asked for a pardon and emphasized that Hoover could help restore peace in Chicago.

While Trump did grant clemency to several individuals during his presidency—such as Alice Marie Johnson, another case supported by Kim Kardashian—Larry Hoover was not among them.

Still, the combination of high-profile support, media coverage, and internet rumors has led many to wrongly assume that Trump freed Hoover.

Is Larry Hoover’s Sentence Commuted?

As of now, Larry Hoover’s sentence has not been commuted. He continues to serve multiple life sentences for both state and federal convictions.

In 2021, Hoover’s legal team filed for a resentencing hearing under the First Step Act, a criminal justice reform law signed by Donald Trump in 2018. The law allows inmates serving harsh sentences for older crimes to seek a reduced sentence.

However, a federal judge rejected Hoover’s request, citing his extensive criminal history and influence over gang activity even while behind bars.

Is Larry Hoover Released?

Again, to clarify, Larry Hoover has not been released. As of the latest updates, he remains in federal prison with no confirmed release date.

His supporters argue that he is a reformed man who deserves another chance, while opponents highlight his long criminal history and continued influence on gang operations as reasons to deny his release.

How Old Is Larry Hoover?

As of 2025, Larry Hoover is 74 years old. He has spent more than five decades behind bars, starting from his conviction in 1973. Despite his age and health concerns, the legal system has shown no sign of granting him freedom.

Larry Hoover and the Media

Recently, Larry Hoover has become a popular topic in pop culture and the media. In 2021, Kanye West and Drake hosted a benefit concert titled “Free Larry Hoover” to raise awareness about his case. The event generated massive buzz and renewed debates about mass incarceration and criminal justice reform.

Additionally, documentaries and podcasts have explored Hoover’s story, attempting to understand his life, his crimes, and whether he could have a positive influence if released.

WFSB and Other Coverage

Major news outlets, including WFSB and others, have occasionally covered updates on Hoover’s legal status. These reports consistently confirm that Larry Hoover is still in custody and that no presidential pardon has been granted.

Final Thoughts

Larry Hoover’s story is one of power, controversy, and endless debate. He is often seen through two lenses: either as a dangerous gang leader responsible for widespread violence or as a reformed elder who could help bring peace to communities he once harmed.

Here are the key points to remember:

Larry Hoover is not free.

Donald Trump did not pardon Larry Hoover.

His sentence has not been commuted.

He is 74 years old and serving multiple life sentences at ADX Florence.

While public interest in Hoover continues to grow, especially from activists and artists, the legal system has firmly kept him behind bars—for now.

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