Rapper Gucci Mane Targeted in Kidnapping and Robbery Plot by Pooh Shiesty, DOJ Says

Lontrell Williams Jr., known as Pooh Shiesty, allegedly asked to meet with Mane to discuss his record contract before the incident.

Apr. 2, 2026 at 10:09pm

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An extreme close-up photograph of a shiny metal object, such as a gun magazine or a broken piece of jewelry, lit by a harsh, direct camera flash against a pitch-black background, creating a stark, gritty, investigative aesthetic.A close-up of evidence from a violent music industry dispute exposes the harsh realities of the criminal underbelly.Memphis Today

The Department of Justice has alleged that rapper Lontrell Williams Jr., known by his stage name Pooh Shiesty, was involved in a kidnapping and robbery plot targeting fellow rapper Gucci Mane in January 2026. According to the criminal complaint, Williams was upset with the terms of his contract with Mane's label 1017 and allegedly pulled a gun on Mane, demanding he sign papers to release him from the deal. After Mane complied, Williams and several others allegedly stole property from other individuals present at the music studio.

Why it matters

This case highlights the potential for violence and criminal activity in the music industry, where disputes over contracts and business dealings can escalate. It also raises questions about the effectiveness of electronic monitoring and the challenges law enforcement faces in preventing such incidents, especially when high-profile figures are involved.

The details

According to the DOJ complaint, Williams was on home confinement with an ankle monitor for a prior firearms conviction when he asked to meet with Mane at a Dallas music studio on January 10, 2026. Williams was allegedly upset with the terms of his contract with Mane's label and wanted to be released. During the meeting, Williams reportedly pulled a gun on Mane and forced him to sign papers to release Williams from the contract. After leaving the studio, Williams and several others allegedly stole property from other individuals present, including a Rolex watch, wallet, and other items. The victims were barred from leaving and feared they would be executed.

  • On January 10, 2026, Williams met with Mane at a Dallas music studio.
  • Williams was on home confinement with an ankle monitor at the time of the incident.

The players

Gucci Mane

A rapper whose legal name is Radric Davis and who owns the 1017 record label that Pooh Shiesty was signed to.

Lontrell Williams Jr.

Also known as Pooh Shiesty, a rapper who was signed to Gucci Mane's 1017 label and was allegedly involved in the kidnapping and robbery plot.

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What they’re saying

“They each face a potential sentence of life in prison if convicted.”

— Ryan Raybould, U.S. Attorney for the Northern District of Texas

What’s next

Prosecutors allege that Williams, his father, and six others have been arrested in connection with the incident and are facing federal charges related to the kidnapping and robbery. The case is ongoing, and the defendants could face life sentences if convicted.

The takeaway

This incident highlights the potential for violence and criminal activity in the music industry, where disputes over contracts and business dealings can escalate. It also raises concerns about the effectiveness of electronic monitoring and the challenges law enforcement faces in preventing such incidents, especially when high-profile figures are involved.