NBA player struggles to recall details in Hobo gang testimony

CHICAGO (WLS) -- A former NBA and DePaul University basketball star struggled to remember facts Thursday as he testified in the trial of six members of a Chicago "super gang."

Bobby Simmons took the witness stand but told the Assistant U.S. Attorney he remembered little about the night in 2006 when he was robbed outside a Chicago night club and chased the robbers, holding one suspect until police arrived.

He answered in one-word answers throughout questioning.

"It was many people outside," Simmons said when asked about the people who robbed him.

When asked about a diamond necklace that was stolen, Simmons said, "I took the chain off" and "gave it."

The government alleges the six men engaged in a pattern of robbery, murder and intimidation.

Away from the jury, attorneys argued about the use of Simmons' testimony to a grand jury that was apparently more forthcoming. Federal prosecutors even went as far as describing Simmons' testimony as hostile.

Defense attorneys said they wanted an opportunity to cross examine Simmons and did not want to leave the impression for jurors that he was afraid to testify.

Prosecutors told the judge that Simmons has been difficult to serve and get to court.

The judge reminded Simmons that he was under subpoena and that he would be required to return to court to testify. The judge said if Simmons fails to do that, he could be held in contempt of court.