Federal Prosecutors Allege Rappers Kidnapped and Robbed Gucci Mane in Dallas Studio Ambush

Federal prosecutors have charged Memphis rappers Pooh Shiesty and Big30 with kidnapping and robbing fellow rapper Gucci Mane during a January incident at a Dallas music studio. According to the Department of Justice, the two artists planned and executed a coordinated armed takeover of the studio. Pooh Shiesty, whose legal name is Lontrell Williams Jr., allegedly arranged a business meeting with Gucci Mane, born Radric Davis, to discuss recording contract terms before brandishing an AK-style pistol and forcing a victim to sign a contract release at gunpoint. Big30, legally Rodney Wright Jr., reportedly blocked the studio door to prevent escape. Eight of nine suspects were arrested Wednesday in Nashville, Memphis, and Dallas. The complaint states that other men involved produced firearms and stole Rolex watches, jewelry, cash, and other valuables, with one victim allegedly choked nearly unconscious. Gucci Mane had signed Williams Jr. to his 1017 Records label in 2020 after the newcomer gained traction on social media. Williams Jr. achieved multi-platinum status with his 2021 hit "Back in Blood" but received a five-year prison sentence on firearms conspiracy charges that same year. He was released early in October after serving three years under home detention conditions, which he allegedly violated by being present at the Dallas studio according to electronic monitoring data. Evidence includes phone records, surveillance footage, fingerprints matching defendants, rental car records showing Williams Sr. rented a vehicle used, hotel records placing suspects nearby after the robbery, and social media posts showing what appeared to be stolen items. U.S. Attorney D. Michael Dunavant stated defendants will be transported to the Northern District of Texas to face charges. Each defendant faces up to life imprisonment if convicted. Williams Jr.'s legal team did not respond to requests for comment.