Pooh Shiesty Alleged to Have Kidnapped Gucci Mane
The U.S. Department of Justice (DOJ) has charged rapper Pooh Shiesty with kidnapping fellow artist Gucci Mane, along with several other individuals, during an armed robbery at a recording studio in Dallas.
Shiesty, previously affiliated with Gucci Mane’s 1017 label, reportedly invited three music industry personnel to discuss a deal. The DOJ announced this on January 10. According to the allegations, Shiesty and his co-conspirators executed an “armed takeover,” threatening one victim at gunpoint with an AK-style weapon and coercing him into signing a contract termination document.
During a press conference, Ryan Raybould, U.S. Attorney for the Northern District of Texas, stated that Shiesty was arrested alongside seven others. If found guilty, he could be sentenced to life in prison.
The DOJ’s claims reveal that one victim was nearly suffocated, while another accomplice, known as Big30, blocked the exit to prevent escape.
Authorities reported the arrests took place across Memphis, Nashville, and Dallas. While Raybould indicated that not all suspects are accounted for, he assured the public that one would be in custody soon.
Raybould emphasized that instead of addressing matters civilly, the defendants resorted to violence and intimidation to further their goals.
Images purportedly showing the injuries of the victims were also released by the DOJ.
Raybould asserted that Shiesty and his group stole valuable items, including Rolex watches and cash, and that some suspects flaunted these stolen goods online shortly after the incident.
“Anyone thinking of using violence or intimidation for business purposes can expect thorough investigation and prosecution in the Northern District of Texas,” Raybould stated.
Law enforcement conducted a search at Shiesty’s home in Memphis, where his father, Lontrell Williams Sr., was arrested for allegedly participating in the kidnapping plot.
At the time of his arrest, Shiesty was reportedly on home confinement following a previous conspiracy conviction, which included conditions prohibiting any further criminal activity or possession of firearms.
He had been released from prison in October 2025 and remains in police custody as of April 2.
