“They came to Dallas to conduct legitimate business and they were met with firearms and violence as alleged in the charging document,” stated Ryan Raybould, a representative from the U.S. Department of Justice, regarding the shocking events that unfolded on January 10, 2026.
Pooh Shiesty, whose real name is Lontrell Williams Jr., has been charged with kidnapping and robbery at gunpoint. The incident took place during a business meeting in a Dallas music studio, where Shiesty allegedly forced one victim to sign a release from his recording contract at gunpoint.
In total, eight of the nine suspects involved in the incident have been arrested across three cities: Memphis, Nashville, and Dallas. The victims were reportedly robbed of Rolex watches, jewelry, cash, and other high-value items, with one victim choked to near unconsciousness during the ordeal.
At the time of the incident, Pooh Shiesty was already on home confinement due to a prior firearms conspiracy conviction. The alleged kidnapping reportedly stemmed from a dispute over his contract with Gucci Mane’s 1017 Records.
Ryan Raybould emphasized the seriousness of the situation, warning, “This case should serve as a warning to others who believe that using violence and intimidation tactics to rob others in our community is a viable way to conduct business.”
The U.S. Department of Justice announced the charges against Pooh Shiesty and his co-conspirators on April 2, 2026. If convicted, each defendant could face up to life in prison.
Photos released by the DOJ have shown injuries one person allegedly suffered during the incident, highlighting the violent nature of the crime. Additionally, Pooh Shiesty’s father was arrested in connection with the case.
The DOJ claims Shiesty and his alleged co-conspirators executed an armed takeover, further complicating the already dire situation surrounding the rapper’s legal troubles.
As the case unfolds, the music industry watches closely, with many concerned about the implications for artists involved in similar disputes.
Details remain unconfirmed.