The Boston Globe recently detailed one of the biggest gang sweeps in the city’s history, where federal authorities charged 48 people with drug and gun crimes that could put the suspects behind bars for decades.

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As of last Friday (June 19), 42 suspects had already been arrested, while the FBI was still on the hunt for the additional six members of the Columbia Point Dawgs, one of Boston’s most notorious gangs.  

The most notable name in the Globe’s report happens to be former Love & Hip Hop: Atlanta star Benzino (a.k.a. Raymond Scott), although he’s not a suspect. 

Benzino was named for having ties to several of the alleged gang members, including Willie Berry, who was arrested during the massive bust. Benzino collaborated on music videos with Berry, who ran his own record label, 8 Bus Records, out of his home in Dorchester and performed under the name Sco or Scodough, the report says. 

Additionally, Berry is alleged to be a leader within the Dawgs. The gang has been accused of running drugs through the city for years on top of committing murders and non-fatal shootings.

UC Irvine criminology professor Charis E. Kubrin believes hip hop often gets unfairly lumped in gang-affiliated crimes. "This is not to say that it doesn't happen," she said.

In a statement released through his lawyer, Benzino wouldn’t directly address the alleged ties. “I deal with lots of people in the music industry, and beyond that I will not make any further comment.’’    

(Photo Prince Williams/FilmMagic)