Rapper Pooh Shiesty Charged with Kidnapping in Dispute Over Gucci Mane's Record Label

Federal prosecutors accuse Pooh Shiesty and eight others of robbing and kidnapping three men in Texas

Apr. 3, 2026 at 1:18am

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An extreme close-up of a shiny metal handgun magazine against a pitch-black background, lit by a harsh, direct camera flash, conceptually representing the violent nature of the alleged crime.A recent wave of violent confrontations involving high-profile rappers exposes the dangers lurking within the music industry's contractual disputes.Memphis Today

Federal prosecutors have accused rapper Pooh Shiesty and eight others of robbing three men at gunpoint and kidnapping them earlier this year in Texas following a contract dispute involving rapper Gucci Mane's record label, 1017 Records. The alleged confrontation happened on January 10 after the three victims, including the owner of 1017 Records, came to Dallas for what they thought was a business meeting arranged by Pooh Shiesty.

Why it matters

This case highlights the ongoing tensions and disputes within the rap music industry, where high-profile artists and label owners can resort to violent tactics to resolve contractual disagreements. It also raises concerns about the prevalence of gun violence and kidnapping incidents in the music world.

The details

According to the federal indictment, once the three victims were inside the studio, Pooh Shiesty allegedly produced an AK-style pistol and forced one of them to sign a release from the recording contract. The other defendants then displayed firearms and robbed the victims of watches, jewelry, cash and other items. One victim was also choked to near unconsciousness, and another defendant barricaded the door to prevent the victims from leaving.

  • The alleged confrontation happened on January 10, 2026.
  • Pooh Shiesty was on home confinement for a prior firearms conspiracy conviction out of Florida at the time of the alleged incident in Texas.

The players

Pooh Shiesty

Rapper whose legal name is Lontrell Williams Jr., accused of arranging the meeting and robbing the victims at gunpoint.

Radric Delantic Davis

Also known as Gucci Mane, the owner of 1017 Records, the label that one of the victims was associated with.

R.D.

The owner of 1017 Records, Gucci Mane's label, who was one of the victims in the alleged incident.

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What they’re saying

“We must hold those who commit violent crimes accountable, especially when firearms are involved.”

— U.S. Attorney

What’s next

Pooh Shiesty is expected to appear in federal court in the coming weeks to face the kidnapping and robbery charges. Prosecutors have indicated they may seek additional charges against the other defendants as the investigation continues.

The takeaway

This case highlights the ongoing problem of gun violence and criminal activity within the rap music industry, where disputes over contracts and business dealings can escalate into serious crimes. It underscores the need for greater accountability and oversight in the industry to prevent such incidents from occurring.