Rappers Accused of Kidnapping and Robbing Gucci Mane at Dallas Studio

Pooh Shiesty and Big30 allegedly ambushed the music studio to force Gucci Mane to sign a release from his recording contract.

Apr. 3, 2026 at 2:18am

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An extreme close-up photograph 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 harsh, gritty image of a crime-related object exposes the violent undercurrents of the music industry.Memphis Today

Federal prosecutors have accused Memphis rappers Pooh Shiesty and Big30 of planning and executing a 'coordinated armed takeover' of a Dallas music studio in January, where they allegedly kidnapped and robbed fellow rapper Gucci Mane. According to the Department of Justice, the two rappers arranged a 'business meeting' with Gucci Mane to discuss his recording contract, but then brandished firearms, forced Mane to sign a release, and robbed the victims of watches, jewelry, and cash.

Why it matters

The alleged incident highlights the growing problem of violence and criminal activity within the music industry, where disputes over contracts, royalties, and other business matters can sometimes escalate into serious crimes. It also raises questions about the rehabilitation and monitoring of artists on probation or house arrest.

The details

Prosecutors say that Pooh Shiesty, whose real name is Lontrell Williams Jr., arranged the meeting with Gucci Mane, who had signed Shiesty to his 1017 Records label in 2020. During the meeting, Shiesty allegedly brandished an AK-style pistol and forced one of the victims to sign a release from the recording contract at gunpoint. Big30, whose real name is Rodney Wright Jr., is accused of barricading the studio door to prevent the victims from escaping, while the other suspects pulled out firearms and robbed the victims of valuable items.

  • The alleged incident took place in January 2026.
  • Pooh Shiesty was released from prison in October 2025 and was still on house arrest at the time of the alleged crime.

The players

Pooh Shiesty

A Memphis rapper whose real name is Lontrell Williams Jr. He was signed to Gucci Mane's 1017 Records label in 2020 and is accused of orchestrating the armed robbery at the Dallas music studio.

Big30

A Memphis rapper whose real name is Rodney Wright Jr. He is accused of barricading the studio door during the alleged robbery.

Gucci Mane

A veteran rapper who signed Pooh Shiesty to his 1017 Records label in 2020. He was the alleged victim of the kidnapping and robbery at the Dallas music studio.

Lontrell Williams Sr.

Pooh Shiesty's father, who is known in the Memphis music scene as 'Mob Boss' and is also accused of being involved in the alleged crime.

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What they’re saying

“These defendants will be transported to the Northern District of Texas to face their crimes.”

— D. Michael Dunavant, U.S. Attorney for the Western District of Tennessee

What’s next

The defendants will be transported to Texas to face charges, and if convicted, they could each face a sentence of up to life in prison.

The takeaway

This case highlights the ongoing problem of violence and criminal activity within the music industry, where disputes over business matters can escalate into serious crimes. It also raises questions about the rehabilitation and monitoring of artists on probation or house arrest.