Pooh Shiesty, Big30 Charged in Alleged Kidnapping, Robbery of Gucci Mane

Federal judge finds probable cause in high-profile case against rap artists and associates.

Apr. 3, 2026 at 10:20pm

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An extreme close-up photograph of a shiny metal object, such as a watch or ring, lit by a harsh, direct camera flash against a pitch-black background, conceptually representing the physical evidence in a high-profile robbery case.A high-profile robbery case against rap artists exposes the dangers and legal pitfalls that can lurk in the music industry.Memphis Today

A federal judge has ruled that there is probable cause to support the case against rap artists Pooh Shiesty and Big30, as well as several other defendants, who are accused of kidnapping and robbing Gucci Mane at a Dallas music studio in January 2026. Prosecutors allege the defendants lured Gucci Mane to the studio under the pretense of business discussions, then held him at gunpoint, forced him to sign a contract release, and stole his personal belongings.

Why it matters

The high-profile case involving prominent figures in the rap music industry has drawn significant attention and raises questions about the lengths some may go to in the competitive world of hip-hop. The alleged use of violence and coercion to settle business disputes also highlights broader concerns about criminal activity within the music scene.

The details

According to prosecutors, Pooh Shiesty, his father Lontrell D. Williams, Sr. (known as Big30), and several other defendants traveled from Memphis to Dallas on January 8-9, 2026. They allegedly lured Gucci Mane, who was signed to Pooh Shiesty's label, to a music studio under the pretense of a business meeting. When Gucci Mane and two other victims arrived, prosecutors claim Pooh Shiesty held Gucci Mane at gunpoint and forced him to sign paperwork releasing him from his contract. The defendants are also accused of stealing Gucci Mane's wedding ring, earrings, cash, and watch. One victim was allegedly choked and had his watch, wallet, and AirPods stolen.

  • On January 8, 2026, the defendants allegedly left Memphis and arrived in Dallas on January 9.
  • On January 10, 2026, the alleged kidnapping and robbery took place at the Dallas music studio.

The players

Pooh Shiesty

A rap artist who was signed to Gucci Mane's record label and is accused of holding Gucci Mane at gunpoint and forcing him to sign a contract release.

Lontrell D. Williams, Sr. (Big30)

Pooh Shiesty's father, who is accused of barricading the exit of the music studio during the alleged incident.

Gucci Mane

A prominent rap artist who was allegedly lured to the Dallas music studio and held at gunpoint, forced to sign a contract release, and robbed of personal belongings.

Demarcus Glover

One of the defendants accused of choking a victim and stealing their watch, wallet, and AirPods.

Damarian Gipson

A defendant accused of showing off a large amount of cash on social media after the alleged robbery.

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What they’re saying

“While Pooh Shiesty's father is his business manager, it's unconfirmed what he printed at the Staples in Frisco. The search of his home did not reveal anything incriminating.”

— Defense attorney for Pooh Shiesty's father

“The defense claimed that Big30 joined Pooh Shiesty, his father, and Gucci Mane in a private room, but there is no evidence that Big30 had a gun.”

— Defense for Big30

What’s next

The judge will decide on whether to grant bail for the defendants at a future hearing.

The takeaway

This high-profile case involving prominent rap artists highlights the potential for violence and criminal activity within the music industry, raising concerns about the lengths some may go to in order to gain an advantage in the competitive world of hip-hop.