The investigation was launched by the Chicago Police Department in 2007 and the FBI became involved later. The five-count indictment returned by a federal grand jury alleges five murders, solicitation of a sixth murder, four attempted murders, three robberies, and the operation of "drug spots" and "drug lines" on the city's South Side among a pattern of criminal activity between 2004 and 2009.
"This gang is quickly becoming known as one of the most violent and ruthless in the city," Chicago Supt. Garry McCarthy said.
- The nine defendants are:
- GREGORY CHESTER, also known as "Bowlegs," "Big Homie," "Pops," and "Desjuar Anderson," 36, of Richton Park, identified as the leader of the Hobos;
- ARNOLD COUNCIL, aka "Armstrong" and "Hobo," 37;
- PARIS POE, aka "Poleroski," 33;
- GABRIEL BUSH, aka "Louie," 34;
- STANLEY VAUGHN, aka "Smiley," 36;
- WILLIAM FORD, aka "Joe Buck," 33;
- GARY CHESTER, aka "Chee," 35, (Gregory Chester's cousin);
- BYRON BROWN, aka "B-Rupt," 28;
- and RODNEY JONES, aka "Milk," 26, all of Chicago.
"Today's announcement serves as a warning, we do not and will not accept violence in our communities and neighborhoods," Supt. McCarthy said.
