Federal prosecutors have charged rapper Pooh Shiesty and eight others in connection with an alleged armed robbery and kidnapping of rapper Gucci Mane and two music industry professionals at a Dallas recording studio on January 10, 2026. The U.S. Department of Justice (DOJ) alleges that Shiesty, whose legal name is Lontrell Williams Jr., organized a meeting under the pretense of discussing his contract with Gucci Mane's 1017 Records label. Instead, authorities claim, Shiesty and his associates executed an armed takeover, brandishing firearms and forcing one victim to sign a contract release form at gunpoint.
Core Allegations and Arrests
The DOJ alleges that Shiesty and his co-conspirators, including Memphis rapper Big30 (Rodney Lamont Wright Jr.), robbed the victims of Rolex watches, jewelry, cash, and other valuables. One victim was allegedly choked to the point of near-unconsciousness, while another suspect blocked the exit to prevent escape. The DOJ shared images of injuries sustained by the alleged victims on their official website. Nine individuals were arrested across Texas, Tennessee, and other states, with one suspect still outstanding.
Legal and Investigative Details
Prosecutors allege that Shiesty was dissatisfied with his contract terms and arranged the meeting to resolve the dispute. Court documents describe how Shiesty and his associates traveled from Memphis to Dallas to carry out the robbery. The DOJ emphasized that the defendants resorted to violence and intimidation to achieve their objectives. If convicted, Shiesty and his co-defendants could face decades in prison under federal kidnapping and robbery statutes.
Victim and Legal Responses
Gucci Mane, whose legal name is Radric Delantic Davis, was not immediately available for comment. Pooh Shiesty's longtime criminal lawyer, Bradford Cohen, did not respond to requests for comment. The DOJ's press release and court documents provide the primary evidence supporting the charges, including photos of injuries and stolen items.
Broader Implications
The case highlights the intersection of the music industry and criminal allegations, raising questions about contract disputes and the use of violence in resolving business conflicts. The multi-state investigation, led by the FBI, underscores the federal government's commitment to prosecuting such crimes. The outcome of the case could have significant legal and industry-wide repercussions.