Federal Prosecutors Allege Armed Kidnapping and Robbery Involving Gucci Mane, Pooh Shiesty, and Big30
Federal authorities have filed a sweeping criminal complaint alleging that rapper Pooh Shiesty orchestrated a violent kidnapping and robbery targeting Gucci Mane during what was supposed to be a business meeting at a Dallas recording studio earlier this year.
According to prosecutors in the Northern District of Texas, the incident took place on January 10, 2026, and involved nine defendants, including rapper Big30. All have been charged with conspiracy to commit kidnapping, a federal offense that carries a potential life sentence if convicted.
Court documents state that Pooh Shiesty, born Lontrell Williams Jr., arranged the meeting with Gucci Mane, whose legal name is Radric Davis, to address dissatisfaction with the terms of his recording agreement under 1017 Records. The label, founded by Davis, signed Williams in 2021.
Prosecutors allege that what was presented as a routine business discussion escalated into a coordinated armed confrontation. According to the complaint, Williams arrived with a group of associates who had traveled from Memphis to Dallas, several of whom were allegedly armed.
During the meeting, authorities claim one of the co-defendants retrieved a bag containing an AK-style firearm, which was then displayed as a means of intimidation. Prosecutors say Davis was forced under threat of violence to sign documents releasing Williams from his contract.
The complaint further alleges that Davis was compelled to verbally confirm the termination of the agreement while a weapon was pointed at him.
Beyond the alleged coercion, prosecutors describe the encounter as a robbery involving multiple victims inside the studio. Authorities claim that jewelry, luxury items, and cash were taken, including watches, earrings, a Louis Vuitton bag, and a wallet equipped with a tracking device. The filing states that Davis’ personal belongings, such as a wedding ring, watch, and cash, were among the items allegedly stolen.
Investigators also allege that individuals inside the studio were prevented from leaving during the incident. One victim was reportedly physically assaulted and nearly lost consciousness after being choked from behind, according to the complaint, which includes photographic evidence of injuries.
Federal authorities say they have gathered a range of evidence linking the defendants to the alleged crime. Among the most significant is electronic monitoring data from Pooh Shiesty, who was on home detention following a prior conviction related to firearm offenses.
According to prosecutors, the data places Williams at the Dallas studio at the time of the incident, which would violate the terms of his release. He had been prohibited from possessing firearms and restricted in his movements after his early release from prison in late 2025.
Additional evidence cited includes license plate reader data, which authorities say shows multiple suspects traveling together from Memphis to Dallas. Rental records indicate that a vehicle used by the group was secured by Williams’ father, who is also named among the defendants.
Surveillance footage from the studio, nearby businesses, and a hotel where several suspects allegedly stayed has also been referenced in the complaint. Investigators further claim that fingerprints recovered at the scene match at least two individuals charged in the case.
The tracking device attached to one of the stolen items reportedly led investigators to a location near an apartment associated with one of the defendants.
Prosecutors also point to social media activity following the alleged incident. According to the complaint, one co-defendant posted a video wearing a watch believed to have been stolen during the robbery, while another shared images of jewelry allegedly taken from victims.
Legal representation for Pooh Shiesty has acknowledged the charges but has not issued a detailed response, stating only that they are reviewing the allegations.
In a statement accompanying the charges, the U.S. Attorney’s Office emphasized that the case represents a broader effort to address violent conduct disguised as business disputes. Officials described the alleged actions as a deliberate use of intimidation and force rather than lawful negotiation.
The defendants are expected to appear in federal court in the coming weeks as the case advances.
