9 Charged in 'Armed Takeover' at Dallas Music Studio

Prosecutors say other rappers kidnapped Gucci Mane

Apr. 3, 2026 at 2:15am

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An extreme close-up photograph of a broken microphone or recording equipment, capturing the gritty aftermath of a violent crime scene in the music industry.The violent armed takeover at a Dallas music studio exposes the dangerous tensions that can erupt within the music industry.Dallas Today

Federal prosecutors have charged nine individuals, including rappers Pooh Shiesty and Big30, for an alleged armed takeover of a Dallas music studio in January where Gucci Mane was briefly held against his will. The complaint alleges Pooh Shiesty lured three music industry figures to the studio under the pretense of discussing a recording contract, then led the armed group in robbing and kidnapping Gucci Mane.

Why it matters

This incident highlights the ongoing tensions and violence within the music industry, where disputes over contracts, royalties, and status can escalate into serious criminal acts. The case also raises concerns about the safety of recording studios and other music industry workspaces, which are meant to be creative hubs but can become targets for criminal activity.

The details

According to the Justice Department complaint, Pooh Shiesty, whose legal name is Lontrell Williams Jr., lured three music industry figures to the Dallas studio under the pretense of discussing his recording contract with one of them. Pooh Shiesty then allegedly led an 'armed takeover' of the studio, where Gucci Mane, born Radric Davis, was briefly held against his will and robbed.

  • The incident occurred in January 2026.
  • The Justice Department complaint was unsealed on April 3, 2026.

The players

Gucci Mane

A rapper who was the victim of the alleged armed takeover at the Dallas music studio.

Pooh Shiesty

A rapper whose legal name is Lontrell Williams Jr., and who is accused of leading the armed takeover of the Dallas music studio.

Big30

A rapper who is one of the nine individuals charged in the alleged armed takeover of the Dallas music studio.

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What’s next

The nine individuals charged in the case are expected to appear in federal court in the coming weeks to face charges related to the alleged armed takeover.

The takeaway

The violent incident at the Dallas music studio underscores the need for greater security and conflict resolution measures within the music industry to protect artists, producers, and other professionals from the threat of armed robbery and kidnapping.