A closer look at 8 suspected gang leaders from Jackson indicted on federal charges

JACKSON, Tenn. — There are new details in a developing story WBBJ 7 Eyewitness News has been following as federal prosecutors, with the help of local officers, released a sweeping indictment of 16 suspected leaders in the Gangster Disciples street gang.

These eight call Jackson home. Each was indicted on RICO conspiracy and racketeering charges involving the distribution of cocaine and marijuana.

Here is a look at the positions prosecutors say each held in the gang.

Byron Purdy, 37, held the rank of governor of Tennessee’s Gangster Disciples. He has made it onto  WBBJ 7 Eyewitness News several times and has served time in prison.

Demarcus Crawford was once the chief of security in Tennessee. Daniel Cole acted as assistant governor and assistant education coordinator in Jackson. Both were charged in 2015 with attacking a woman.

Santiago Shaw was a member of the security team or “blackout squad” in Jackson. WBBJ 7 Eyewitness News reported on him several times, including in 2015 for illegally having a gun.

Tommy Champion, 27, held the rank of chief of security in Jackson. Records show he was charged in connection with a 2012 shooting at Club Karma.

Cory Bowers acted as a member of the security team in Jackson and has a lengthy record including a drug arrest in 2015.

Gerald Hampton was also a member of the security team or “blackout squad” in Jackson. State records show he is currently in state prison.

Tarius Taylor held a similar rank with the Gangster Disciples. He faces an additional seven counts of attempted murder and seven firearms counts.

According to prosecutors, each could face up to life in prison if convicted.