Prosecutors Argue Big30's 7-Figure Record Deal Could Help Him Flee Gucci Mane Kidnapping Case

Prosecutors say the rapper's lucrative contract gives him the means to disappear if released on bond.

Apr. 16, 2026 at 11:10pm

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

An extreme close-up photograph of a crumpled, glittering gold contract, capturing the high-stakes glamour and legal complexities surrounding a rapper's career and criminal case.The lucrative record deal that could determine the fate of a rising rapper caught up in a high-profile criminal case.Memphis Today

Prosecutors are fighting to keep Memphis rapper Big30 jailed, arguing that his recent 7-figure record deal with Connect Music Group could give him the financial resources to flee if released on bond. Big30 was arrested alongside Pooh Shiesty over allegations they were involved in a 'coordinated takeover' of a Dallas recording studio, where they are accused of kidnapping and robbing Gucci Mane in an attempt to pressure him into releasing Pooh Shiesty from a 1017 Records contract. While Big30's lawyer says the deal reflects his client's stability, not risk, prosecutors claim the contract is a potential 'escape route' that increases his ability to disappear.

Why it matters

This case highlights the complex intersection of the music industry, criminal justice, and the perception of wealth and resources. Prosecutors are trying to use Big30's business success against him, framing the record deal as a liability rather than an opportunity. The outcome could set a precedent for how courts view the financial standing of high-profile defendants.

The details

Big30 was arrested alongside Pooh Shiesty and several co-defendants over allegations tied to a January 10, 2026 incident involving Gucci Mane. Authorities allege the group carried out a 'coordinated takeover' of a Dallas recording studio, accusing them of kidnapping and robbing Gucci Mane in an attempt to pressure him into releasing Pooh Shiesty from a 1017 Records contract. Prosecutors are now zeroing in on Big30's recent 7-figure record deal with Connect Music Group, arguing it could give him the means to flee if released on bond. However, Big30's lawyer says the deal reflects his client's stability and success in the music industry, not a risk of flight.

  • Big30 was arrested on January 10, 2026 over the alleged incident involving Gucci Mane.
  • Prosecutors filed their motion to overturn Big30's $100,000 secured bond on April 16, 2026.

The players

Big30

A Memphis rapper who was recently signed to a 7-figure record deal with Connect Music Group.

Pooh Shiesty

A rapper who was arrested alongside Big30 over the alleged incident involving Gucci Mane.

Gucci Mane

A well-known rapper who prosecutors allege was the victim of a kidnapping and robbery attempt by Big30, Pooh Shiesty, and their co-defendants.

Arthur Horne

Big30's attorney, who argues the record deal reflects his client's stability, not a risk of flight.

Bradford Cohen

Pooh Shiesty's attorney, who challenged the prosecution's claims about a 'mystery contract' and lack of physical evidence.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“He doesn't have a criminal history. He's been making music for a number of years. He and Pooh Shiesty came up in the music game together. They were very close and made music together. It's just sad that this is happening right now... I just hope that people will wait to pass judgment on Rodney and these other individuals until all the facts come out.”

— Arthur Horne, Big30's attorney

“What we didn't hear today was [that] there is no contract — this mystery contract — they have no contract. They have no video of this alleged signing of a contract. They have no guns, no jewelry — they have none of that physical evidence. What they have is allegedly five individuals, one of them being a very well-known individual, that is allegedly cooperating with the government and making these allegations...”

— Bradford Cohen, Pooh Shiesty's attorney

What’s next

The judge in the case will decide whether to overturn Big30's $100,000 secured bond based on the prosecution's arguments about his record deal.

The takeaway

This case highlights the complex challenges faced by high-profile defendants with newfound wealth and success, as prosecutors attempt to use their business achievements against them in the criminal justice system. The outcome could set an important precedent for how courts view the financial standing of musicians and other artists accused of crimes.