Trump Pardons Larry Hoover, But He's Still Not Getting Out

Larry Hoover Remains Imprisoned Despite Trump Pardon Chicago, IL – On May 28, 2025, former President Donald Trump pardoned Larry Hoover, the co-founder of the notorious Gangster Disciples street gang. However, this pardon does not result in Hoover's immediate release from prison. Hoover, incarcerated since 1973, faces a lengthy state-level sentence that remains unaffected by the presidential pardon. "While Trump's pardon erased his federal life sentences, his original 150–200 year state sentence in Illinois still stands," explains Zachary Owings, co-author of the Rap Updates YouTube channel. The video further details that Hoover's parole was denied in 2024, pushing his next opportunity for release to 2028 at the earliest. The case has garnered attention from prominent figures, including Kanye West and Drake, who publicly advocated for Hoover's release. Their efforts focused on the federal charges, which were indeed overturned by the pardon. The video underscores the importance of understanding the differences between federal and state legal systems. The situation leaves Hoover, at 78 years old, with a long road ahead before any potential release. Despite the pardon, Hoover's case highlights the complexities of the justice system and the limitations of presidential pardons in addressing state-level convictions. The ongoing legal battle serves as a reminder of the lengthy and often arduous process of achieving justice and freedom.