A high-ranking member of the Raleigh Crips gang, 34-year-old Dwight Hinton, has been sentenced to nearly six years in prison for possession of a firearm by a convicted felon. Hinton pled guilty to the charge on November 3, 2023, and received a sentence of five years and 11 months.
According to court records, Hinton was involved in illegal firearms trafficking in New York. He worked with another gang member to transport guns by using a straw purchaser to acquire firearms from licensed dealers, which were then sold illegally. The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives (ATF) conducted an investigation into his activities, utilizing a confidential informant to purchase three firearms from him. Among these was an AR-15 rifle equipped with a high-capacity magazine and a brass catcher, which had the potential to be converted into a machine gun.
While in custody, federal authorities recorded Hinton discussing a $20,000 murder-for-hire scheme that was allegedly proposed by another gang member. His behavior while awaiting sentencing further added to his criminal record. Officials reported that he attacked an inmate at Pamlico Correctional Institution and later assaulted another inmate at the Pitt County Jail. During his time in custody, he was also found in possession of a homemade “shank” weapon.
Hinton’s criminal history includes eight prior felony convictions, encompassing multiple offenses of possession of a firearm by a convicted felon, breaking and entering, robbery with a dangerous weapon, assault with a deadly weapon causing serious injury, and common law robbery.
His most recent sentencing adds to his already extensive criminal record, highlighting his repeated involvement in violent and illegal activities. The case against him was built with the assistance of federal authorities, including ATF investigations, undercover operations, and recorded conversations while he was in custody. Despite previous convictions and incarceration, Hinton continued his involvement in illegal enterprises, including firearm trafficking and violent offenses.
Authorities have emphasized the importance of addressing illegal gun trafficking and violent gang-related activities, noting that cases like Hinton’s demonstrate ongoing efforts to reduce gun crimes and prevent further violence in affected communities.
