Rapper Pooh Shiesty Ordered to Remain in Custody Over Alleged Robbery at Gucci Mane's Label

Federal judge cites strong evidence and criminal history in decision to deny bail for Memphis rapper.

Apr. 9, 2026 at 5:18am

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An extreme close-up of a shiny metal object, such as a gun magazine or jewelry, lit by a harsh, direct camera flash against a pitch-black background, conceptually representing the gritty details of a criminal investigation.The alleged robbery of a music label owner exposes the high-stakes tensions underlying the rap industry.Dallas Today

A federal judge in Texas has ordered rapper Pooh Shiesty, whose legal name is Lontrell Williams Jr., to remain in custody on kidnapping charges after he allegedly pulled a gun during a contract dispute involving rapper Gucci Mane's record label, 1017 Records. Prosecutors have also charged eight others over the alleged January confrontation at a Dallas music studio, where the victims were allegedly robbed at gunpoint.

Why it matters

The case highlights the high-stakes world of the music industry, where contract disputes can sometimes turn violent. It also raises questions about the legal troubles facing rising rap stars like Pooh Shiesty, who has a prior firearms conviction.

The details

According to an FBI affidavit, Pooh Shiesty arranged a meeting at the Dallas music studio to discuss the terms of his contract with 1017 Records, which is 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 man's wedding ring, watch, earrings, and cash.

  • The alleged incident occurred in January 2026.
  • Pooh Shiesty was arrested last week.

The players

Pooh Shiesty

A rapper whose legal name is Lontrell Williams Jr. He has been charged with kidnapping and has a prior firearms conviction.

Gucci Mane

A pioneering Atlanta rapper who owns the 1017 Records label, which was allegedly involved in the contract dispute.

Renee Harris Toliver

The U.S. Magistrate Judge who ordered Pooh Shiesty to remain in custody, citing strong evidence and the rapper's criminal history.

Bradford Cohen

The attorney representing Pooh Shiesty, who questioned the strength of the prosecution's evidence.

R.D.

The owner of 1017 Records, who was allegedly robbed at gunpoint during the confrontation.

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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 the night that it occurred.”

— Bradford Cohen, Pooh Shiesty's attorney

What’s next

The judge will decide on Tuesday whether to grant Pooh Shiesty bail.

The takeaway

This case highlights the legal troubles facing some rising rap stars, as well as the potential for violence in the music industry when high-stakes contract disputes arise.