Police Bust Alleged Family-Run Drug Ring

Federal authorities say they have arrested 19 people and shut down a family-run drug business that distributed cocaine throughout the Boston area for two decades.

Authorities say they have been trying to bring down the drug ring allegedly run by Michael Williams and his cousin Donald Williams for years, but had trouble infiltrating it because it was family run.

Both Boston men were charged Thursday with possession with intent to distribute more than 500 grams of cocaine and more than 280 grams of cocaine base.

Investigators seized four properties, and confiscated cash, drugs, cars, and weapons during raids Boston and Brockton.

Most of the defendants have been ordered held until a bail hearing Dec. 10.

A lawyer for Michael Williams says he is still reviewing the evidence.