Federal prosecutors have now laid out the case behind Pooh Shiesty’s latest arrest, and the allegations stretch far beyond the Memphis raid that first made headlines.
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The Department of Justice announced Thursday that Shiesty, whose real name is Lontrell Williams Jr., is among nine people accused in a federal investigation tied to an alleged robbery and kidnapping at a Dallas recording studio. The case also names Memphis rapper Big30, born Rodney Wright Jr., along with several others arrested across Memphis, Nashville, and Dallas.
During a press conference in Dallas, officials confirmed Shiesty’s arrest, while the FBI in Memphis stated his father, Lontrell Williams Sr., was taken into custody during Wednesday’s raid at the family’s Cordova home. That operation, previously described as a federal search, now connects directly to a broader criminal case.
According to the DOJ, the incident traces back to January 10, when Shiesty traveled to Dallas for what was presented as a business meeting with two music professionals. Investigators allege the meeting escalated once inside the studio, where Shiesty and eight co-conspirators held multiple individuals at gunpoint, including Gucci Mane, whose legal name is Radric Davis.
Prosecutors say Shiesty forced one victim to sign a release form from a music label while being threatened with a firearm. Authorities also allege that suspects took cash and luxury items, including jewelry and a Rolex, while one victim was choked to the point of near unconsciousness. Big30 is accused of blocking exits to keep victims from leaving.
The DOJ further claims Shiesty’s father helped plan and execute the incident, adding another layer to the family’s involvement. Investigators also allege that some suspects later posted images online featuring items believed to be stolen.
The charges arrive just six months after Shiesty’s release from federal prison, shifting what looked like a comeback into a rapidly escalating legal fight.
