Chicago Gang Member Sentenced to 34 Years for 2020 Murder

Introduction to the Case

CHICAGO – A Chicago man was sentenced to 34 years in federal prison for fatally shooting another man to bolster his standing in a violent street gang.

The Backstory

The backstory:

Diontae Harper, 25, admitted to killing Paul Harris on May 13, 2020, in Chicago’s Auburn Gresham neighborhood. According to a plea agreement, Harper and another man opened fire on Harris while he was sitting in a vehicle at a gas station in the 8600 block of South Halsted Street.

Motivation Behind the Murder

Federal prosecutors said Harper committed the murder to elevate his status within the Faceworld gang, a criminal organization based on the city’s South Side known for violence and drug trafficking. While in custody earlier this year, Harper also made threatening statements toward a witness, authorities said.

Legal Proceedings

Harper pleaded guilty in January to a federal charge of discharging a firearm during a crime of violence resulting in death. U.S. District Judge Manish S. Shah handed down the sentence on May 8 in Chicago federal court.

The case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Julia Schwartz, Sushma Raju and Matthew Moyer. The investigation was led by the FBI’s Chicago Field Office and the Chicago Police Department.

Other Involved Parties

Two others involved in the killing — the second shooter and the getaway driver — have also pleaded guilty to murder in aid of racketeering and are awaiting sentencing.

Source of Information

The Source: The information in this story came from the U.S. Attorney’s Office, Northern District of Illinois and previous FOX 32 reporting.

Conclusion

The sentencing of Diontae Harper to 34 years in federal prison marks a significant step in addressing gang violence in Chicago. The case highlights the ongoing efforts of law enforcement agencies to combat crime and ensure public safety. It also underscores the severe consequences for those involved in violent criminal activities, particularly when such actions are taken to bolster standing within a gang.

FAQs

• Q: What was Diontae Harper sentenced for?
  • A: Diontae Harper was sentenced to 34 years in federal prison for fatally shooting another man to bolster his standing in a violent street gang.
• Q: What gang was Harper a part of?
  • A: Harper was a member of the Faceworld gang, a criminal organization based on Chicago’s South Side known for violence and drug trafficking.
• Q: What charge did Harper plead guilty to?
  • A: Harper pleaded guilty to a federal charge of discharging a firearm during a crime of violence resulting in death.
• Q: Are there others involved in the case who have been sentenced?
  • A: Yes, two others involved in the killing have pleaded guilty to murder in aid of racketeering and are awaiting sentencing.