Judge Finds Probable Cause in Pooh Shiesty Kidnapping, Robbery Case

Memphis rapper and five others accused of holding music professionals at gunpoint in Dallas studio

Apr. 3, 2026 at 10:54pm

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An extreme close-up photograph of a crumpled Rolex watch face, the metal and glass distorted by force, conveying a sense of sudden violence and violation against its owner.A violent robbery targeting music industry professionals exposes the vulnerability of creative spaces to crime.Memphis Today

A federal judge has determined there is probable cause to move forward with the case against Memphis rapper Pooh Shiesty and five other defendants accused of robbing and kidnapping multiple victims at a music studio in Dallas. The group allegedly held the victims at gunpoint, with Shiesty forcing one victim to sign a release form while threatened.

Why it matters

This high-profile case involving a well-known rapper highlights the ongoing issue of violent crime and robbery targeting members of the music industry, raising concerns about the safety of creative professionals and the need for increased security measures in recording studios and other industry spaces.

The details

According to the Department of Justice, on January 10th, Pooh Shiesty and three other music professionals traveled from Memphis to Dallas for a meeting with two music industry contacts. While inside the studio, Shiesty and eight co-conspirators allegedly held the victims at gunpoint. Shiesty is accused of forcing one victim to sign a release form from a music label while being threatened with a gun, while the other suspects stole cash and high-value items like a Rolex and jewelry.

  • On January 10, Shiesty and others traveled from Memphis to Dallas for the meeting.
  • Shiesty and the co-conspirators allegedly held the victims at gunpoint inside the Dallas studio.

The players

Pooh Shiesty

Also known as Lontrell Williams Jr., a Memphis-based rapper who was recently released from federal prison after pleading guilty to firearm and drug charges.

Big30

Also known as Rodney Wright Jr., a Memphis rapper who was one of the five defendants in court.

Lontrell Williams Sr.

Pooh Shiesty's father, who was also one of the five defendants in court.

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What’s next

Pooh Shiesty, who was arrested in Dallas, remains in custody there, while the other five defendants appeared in court in Memphis. The judge's finding of probable cause means the case will now move forward.

The takeaway

This incident underscores the vulnerability of the music industry to violent crime, and the need for greater security protocols to protect artists, producers, and other professionals in recording studios and other industry spaces. It also raises questions about the challenges of rehabilitating high-profile offenders like Pooh Shiesty who have recently been released from prison.