Rappers Accused of Robbing, Kidnapping Gucci Mane in Dallas

Pooh Shiesty, Big30, and others allegedly executed an armed takeover at a music studio, forcing Gucci Mane to sign a contract release at gunpoint.

Apr. 2, 2026 at 4:40pm

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The U.S. Department of Justice has accused rappers Pooh Shiesty, Big30, and several others of kidnapping and robbing fellow rapper Gucci Mane at a music studio in Dallas. The group allegedly forced Gucci Mane to sign a contract release at gunpoint and stole Rolex watches, jewelry, cash, and other items from the victims.

Why it matters

This high-profile incident involving prominent rappers highlights the ongoing issues of violence, crime, and exploitation within the music industry. It raises concerns about the safety of artists and professionals in the industry, as well as the need for greater accountability and oversight.

The details

According to the DOJ complaint, Pooh Shiesty arranged a meeting at the Dallas music studio, allegedly to discuss his recording contract with one of the victims. When the victims arrived, Pooh Shiesty and his co-conspirators, several of whom traveled from Memphis, executed an armed takeover of the studio. Pooh Shiesty reportedly pulled out an AK-style pistol and forced one of the victims to sign a release from the recording contract at gunpoint. The other suspects also pulled out guns and robbed the victims of their valuables, with one victim being choked to near unconsciousness. Big30 is accused of barricading the door to prevent the victims from escaping.

  • On January 10, three music industry professionals traveled to Dallas for the meeting arranged by Pooh Shiesty.
  • The armed robbery and kidnapping occurred during this meeting at the Dallas music studio.

The players

Gucci Mane

A prominent rapper whose real name is Radric Delantic Davis, and one of the victims of the alleged robbery and kidnapping.

Pooh Shiesty

A rapper whose real name is Lontrell Denell Williams Jr., and the alleged orchestrator of the armed takeover and robbery.

Big30

A rapper whose real name is Rodney Lamont Wright Jr., and one of Pooh Shiesty's alleged co-conspirators.

Lontrell Williams Sr.

Pooh Shiesty's father, who is alleged to have helped plan and execute the kidnapping.

U.S. Department of Justice (DOJ)

The federal agency that has charged the rappers and their co-conspirators with the armed robbery and kidnapping.

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What they’re saying

“We must hold accountable those who commit violent crimes, regardless of their celebrity status.”

— U.S. Attorney for the Northern District of Texas Chad E. Meacham

What’s next

The eight suspects who were arrested on Wednesday are expected to appear in federal court in the coming days. The DOJ has stated that they will continue to investigate the incident and pursue any additional charges or suspects as necessary.

The takeaway

This case highlights the ongoing issues of violence, crime, and exploitation within the music industry, and the need for greater accountability and oversight to protect artists and industry professionals. It also raises concerns about the influence of celebrity status and the potential for abuse of power within the industry.