The Gangster Disciples is a street gang that was founded in the South Side of Chicago in the late 1960s. The gang is known for its involvement in criminal activities such as drug trafficking, extortion, and violence.
The Gangster Disciples was originally formed by Larry Hoover, who was known as the "King" of the gang. Hoover was born in Jackson, Mississippi, in 1950 and moved to Chicago with his family when he was a child. Hoover started his criminal career at a young age, and by the time he was in his early 20s, he was already a leader in the gang.
The Gangster Disciples have a strict hierarchy, with Hoover at the top as the leader. Beneath him are the "Board of Directors," which consists of high-ranking members who are responsible for making decisions and enforcing rules within the gang. Below the Board of Directors are the "Governors," who are in charge of specific territories within the gang. The gang also has a "Military," which is responsible for carrying out orders and enforcing discipline within the gang.
The Gangster Disciples have a strict code of conduct, which includes a set of rules and regulations that members must follow. These rules include no drug use, no stealing from other gang members, and no disrespecting the gang's leadership. Violation of these rules can result in punishment, ranging from a warning to expulsion from the gang.
The Gangster Disciples have a complex system of symbols and hand signs that are used to communicate with each other and identify themselves as members of the gang. These symbols include the six-pointed star, which represents the gang's belief in the principles of love, life, loyalty, knowledge, wisdom, and understanding. The gang also uses the number "666," which represents the letters "GD," for Gangster Disciples.
Despite the strict rules and regulations within the Gangster Disciples, the gang is known for its involvement in criminal activities, including drug trafficking, extortion, and violence. In the 1980s and 1990s, the Gangster Disciples were involved in a violent turf war with a rival gang called the Black Gangster Disciples. This turf war resulted in numerous deaths and injuries, and both gangs were heavily involved in the drug trade.
In recent years, the Gangster Disciples have faced increased scrutiny and legal action. Many of the gang's leaders, including Larry Hoover, have been arrested and convicted of various crimes, and the gang has faced numerous federal and state prosecutions. Despite these efforts, the Gangster Disciples remain a significant presence in the criminal underworld, with a membership that is estimated to be in the tens of thousands.
In conclusion, the Gangster Disciples are a significant street gang that was founded in the South Side of Chicago in the late 1960s. The gang is known for its strict hierarchy and code of conduct, as well as its involvement in criminal activities such as drug trafficking, extortion, and violence. Despite legal action and increased scrutiny, the Gangster Disciples remain a significant presence in the criminal underworld.