Rapper Pooh Shiesty Ordered to Remain in Custody in Gucci Mane Contract Dispute

Federal judge cites strong evidence against the Memphis artist in alleged Dallas studio robbery.

Apr. 9, 2026 at 3:23pm

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An extreme close-up photograph of a gold chain and diamond-encrusted watch against a pitch-black background, lit by a harsh, direct camera flash, conceptually representing the high-stakes, gritty nature of the alleged armed robbery in the music industry dispute.A high-stakes music industry dispute over a record contract leads to an alleged armed robbery, exposing the cutthroat realities behind the glitz of the trap music scene.Dallas Today

Rapper Pooh Shiesty, whose real name is Lontrell Williams Jr., has been ordered by a federal judge in Dallas to remain in custody on kidnapping charges related to an alleged armed confrontation at a music studio. Prosecutors say Pooh Shiesty pulled a gun on the owner of Gucci Mane's 1017 Records label during a contract dispute, robbing the victim of personal items. The judge cited the weight of evidence against the rapper, who has a criminal history and previously violated home confinement.

Why it matters

The case highlights the potential for violence in the high-stakes world of the music industry, where contract disputes can escalate into serious criminal allegations. Pooh Shiesty's arrest also raises questions about the broader culture of trap music, which has been associated with gun violence and criminal activity.

The details

According to an FBI affidavit, Pooh Shiesty arranged a meeting at a Dallas music studio to discuss the terms of his contract with 1017 Records, the label owned by rapper Gucci Mane. During the meeting, Pooh Shiesty allegedly produced contract termination paperwork and pulled out what appeared to be an AK-style pistol, forcing the label owner to sign. The rapper then allegedly took the victim's wedding ring, watch, earrings, and cash.

  • On January 15, 2026, the alleged incident occurred at the Dallas music studio.
  • Pooh Shiesty was arrested by the FBI last week in connection with the incident.

The players

Pooh Shiesty

Rapper whose legal name is Lontrell Williams Jr., charged with kidnapping and robbery in the incident.

Gucci Mane

Veteran Atlanta rapper and founder of 1017 Records, the label involved in the alleged contract dispute.

Renee Harris Toliver

U.S. Magistrate Judge who ordered Pooh Shiesty to remain in custody, citing strong evidence against him.

Bradford Cohen

Pooh Shiesty's attorney, who raised questions about the prosecution's evidence during the hearing.

R.D.

Owner of 1017 Records, the alleged victim in the incident.

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What they’re saying

“I find that the weight of the evidence against you is strong.”

— Renee Harris Toliver, U.S. Magistrate Judge

“The FBI doesn't take three months to arrest someone if they believe everything that was said on the night that it occurred.”

— Bradford Cohen, Pooh Shiesty's attorney

What’s next

The judge will determine whether to grant Pooh Shiesty bail at a future hearing.

The takeaway

This case highlights the potential for violence in the music industry, where high-stakes contract disputes can escalate into serious criminal allegations. It also raises broader questions about the culture of trap music and its association with gun violence.