Lontrell Williams Sr., the father of Memphis rapper Pooh Shiesty, is expected to be released from federal custody after a judge denied prosecutors’ attempt to keep him locked up while the case plays out.
According to Action News 5, a federal judge lifted the temporary stay that had delayed Williams Sr.’s release, clearing the way for him to leave custody while facing charges tied to an alleged Dallas recording studio robbery and kidnapping involving Gucci Mane. Williams Sr. and co-defendant Rodney “Big30” Wright Jr. have both pleaded not guilty.
A Bond Fight With Big Stakes
The ruling is a notable shift in a case that has pulled together some major names from Memphis and Atlanta rap. Williams Sr. had previously been granted a $250,000 bond during earlier proceedings, but prosecutors pushed back and sought to have his release revoked. Action News 5 reported in April that prosecutors wanted him kept in custody and that he was ordered to be transferred to Dallas while the bond dispute continued.
Now, with the judge denying the government’s request, Williams Sr. is set to fight the case from outside federal custody. That does not mean the charges went away. It only means the court allowed release while the prosecution moves forward.
What Prosecutors Claim Happened In Dallas
Federal prosecutors say the case stems from a January 10 meeting at a Dallas music studio. According to the Department of Justice, nine men, including Pooh Shiesty, Big30, and Williams Sr., were charged in connection with an alleged armed robbery and kidnapping at the studio. Prosecutors claim the meeting was presented as a business discussion tied to music and contract issues, but turned into what authorities described as an armed takeover.
Authorities allege victims were held at gunpoint and robbed of jewelry, Rolex watches, cash, and other valuables. Prosecutors also claim one victim was forced to sign a contract release under threat of violence. The Associated Press reported that a judge previously ordered Pooh Shiesty, whose legal name is Lontrell Williams Jr., to remain in custody, telling him, “I find that the weight of the evidence against you is strong.”
Trial Date Is Already On The Calendar
Pooh Shiesty and eight other defendants are currently scheduled for a jury trial on July 6, according to Action News 5.
For now, Williams Sr. has won the bond fight, but the larger federal case is still very much active. All defendants are presumed innocent unless proven guilty in court.
