High-Profile Arrests in Dallas: Rappers Pooh Shiesty and Big30 Involved in Alleged Kidnapping

On April 2, 2026, the US Department of Justice announced the arrest of eight individuals, including rappers Pooh Shiesty and Big30, in connection with an alleged kidnapping and armed robbery at a Dallas music studio. This shocking turn of events has left the rap world in disbelief, with one suspect still at large.

Background on the Alleged Incident

The violent incident reportedly took place on January 10, 2026. Three professionals from the music industry traveled to Dallas for a meeting, which was supposedly arranged by Pooh Shiesty—whose legal name is Lontrell Denell Williams Jr.—to address a recording contract dispute with Gucci Mane’s 1017 Records label, a deal Pooh Shiesty had been a part of since 2020.

Details of the Attack

According to federal prosecutors, the meeting escalated into what authorities described as a "coordinated armed takeover" involving nine individuals, several of whom had traveled together from Memphis.

Allegations of Violence and Theft

During the incident, Pooh Shiesty reportedly displayed an AK-style firearm and coerced a victim into signing a release from a recording contract at gunpoint. Other suspects were allegedly armed and robbed victims of valuables such as Rolex watches, jewelry, and cash. One victim was reportedly choked to near unconsciousness, while Big30 (legal name, Rodney Lamont Wright Jr.) is accused of blocking exits to prevent the victims from escaping.

Involvement of Gucci Mane

Among the victims was Atlanta rapper Gucci Mane (legal name, Radric Delantic Davis), as confirmed by WFAA, a local Dallas outlet. Notably, multiple suspects reportedly posted photographs of the stolen items on social media within hours of the incident, providing crucial evidence for investigators.

Investigative Findings

Authorities collected substantial evidence, including electronic monitoring data, mobile phone records, and license plate reader information that confirmed the suspects’ travel from Memphis to Dallas.

New Developments: Family Ties

Lontrell Williams Sr., Pooh Shiesty’s father, has also been implicated. He allegedly helped organize the attack, rented the vehicle used, and was arrested following an FBI raid on their home in Cordova, Tennessee.

List of Arrested Individuals

The full list of charged individuals comprises:

• Lontrell Williams Jr. (Pooh Shiesty)
• Lontrell Williams Sr.
• Rodney Wright Jr. (Big30)
• Kadarius Waters
• Demarion Gibson
• DeMarcus Glover
• Corday Johnson
• Darian McDaniel
• Terrence Rodgers (the sole suspect still at large)

Pooh Shiesty’s Legal Status

At the time of this alleged offense, Pooh Shiesty was on home detention after serving approximately three years for previous crimes involving firearms and drug trafficking. The terms of his release strictly prohibited him from engaging in further criminal activity.

Legal Implications and Future Sentencing

The case is being prosecuted by the US Attorney’s Office for the Northern District of Texas. US Attorney Ryan R. Raybould remarked, "These individuals kidnapped and robbed at gunpoint numerous victims at a music studio in Dallas." His colleague, US Attorney Chad E. Meacham, emphasized the need for accountability, irrespective of celebrity status.

Potential sentences for those involved could range from zero to life imprisonment, contingent upon individual charges and prior criminal histories.

Ongoing Investigation

Although details about whether Gucci Mane sustained physical harm during the incident remain unconfirmed, the case is still active, with authorities pursuing the arrest of Terrence Rodgers.

Stay updated with breaking news as the investigation unfolds.