Jury in Hobos gang trial says some members refuse to agree on verdict
Elyssa Cherney and Jason MeisnerContact Reporters
Chicago Tribune
A federal jury in a racketeering case against one of Chicago's most notorious street gangs indicated Thursday that it may be deadlocked on at least one count but didn't say whether it was stuck on a central charge that could send six alleged Hobos members to prison for life.
In a note to U.S. District Judge John Tharp, the jury wrote that one person refuses to convict and at least one person refuses to give a not guilty verdict.
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"There are some strong beliefs on both sides," the note said.
The revelation came on the fourth full day of deliberation following a marathon 15-week trial that featured hundreds of witnesses. The defendants are accused, among other things, of taking part in nine killings and a slew of kidnappings, robberies and shootings over the course of a decade.
Tharp, in a note, advised jurors to "please continue deliberating." He said he could press jurors harder about reaching a decision after three months of testimony, but he's "reluctant to bring out the canon at this stage."
The note did not specify to which charge or defendant it referred. The defendants face nine other criminal charges related to gang activity, but the racketeering conspiracy is the most serious.
Thursday's note came a week after a juror, on the first day of deliberation, said he made up his mind and didn't want to continue, according to Joseph Fitzpatrick, a spokesman for the U.S. Attorney's Office.
"Judge, how can I get off this jury?" the note said. "Maybe one of the alternates can take my place?"
After questioning the juror further, Tharp said the man needed to remain on the panel.
Among the defendants are Gregory "Bowlegs" Chester, the gang's reputed leader who testified in his own defense earlier this month. Alleged gang lieutenants Paris Poe, Arnold Council, Gabriel Bush, Stanley Vaughn and William Ford also stood trial.
The jury will continue deliberations Tuesday.
