GANG CHIEF GETS LIFE SENTENCE FOR DRUG DEALS

Gregory Shell, formerly the top Gangster Disciples leader on the streets of
Chicago, was sentenced to mandatory life imprisonment Wednesday for his
participation in the gang's multimillion-dollar drug operation.

With gang leader Larry Hoover serving a long prison term for murder, Shell
played a key role in directing drug efforts and enforcing discipline in the
ranks, according to federal prosecutors.

Shell's girlfriend, Sonia Irwin, a former Chicago police gang crimes
officer, was sentenced to 12 1/2 years in prison last August for fronting as
the owner of a restaurant where the gang collected drug money.

U.S. District Judge Harry Leinenweber also ordered Shell to pay a $15,000
fine from any prison-job earnings.

"With your abilities, you could have done something for yourself and your
community," the judge told Shell. "But you chose the wrong way."

Checked-by: Melodi Cornett