Federal prosecutors have recently unveiled video evidence in the case against rapper Pooh Shiesty, who is accused of robbing and kidnapping Gucci Mane at a recording studio in Dallas. The newly acquired footage reportedly depicts Shiesty brandishing an AK-style pistol while demanding that Gucci Mane release him from his recording contract.
In light of this evidence, along with group chat communications and testimony from five cooperating witnesses, prosecutors denied Shiesty’s request for home confinement. The rapper, whose real name is Lontrell Williams Jr., has pleaded not guilty to charges of federal kidnapping and extortion, facing a potential life sentence when his trial commences in February.
The court filing details a dramatic incident where the video allegedly captures Shiesty confronting Gucci Mane, whose real name is Radric Davis, and demanding the release of his contract while an armed accomplice obstructs the doorway. In photos submitted by prosecutors, Shiesty is seen wearing a large diamond chain and a black ski mask.
Prosecutors assert that Shiesty was dissatisfied with his record deal and arranged to meet Gucci Mane in Dallas in January. When Mane initially declined to sign the release, Shiesty reportedly threatened him with a firearm, insisting that he comply.
Additional evidence presented includes a still frame from the video showing Shiesty’s father holding the release documents and a forced statement from Gucci Mane, recorded on video, where he asserts, “Pooh Shiesty dropped from 1017,” referring to 1017 Records.
Moreover, it is alleged that the group, which included co-defendant Demarcus Glover, made off with approximately $450,000 in cash and jewelry during the robbery. This incident has led to federal charges against nine individuals, including notable Memphis rappers Shiesty and Rodney Wright Jr., known as BIG30.
The emergence of this video marks a significant turn in the case. In previous court proceedings, Shiesty’s attorney maintained that there was a lack of video evidence or physical proof linking him to the alleged crime.
Prosecutors have also referenced a group chat on the Signal app, in which Shiesty, under the alias Michael Meyers, coordinated the meeting and discussed logistics with other co-defendants, referring to “certified gangsters” in their plans.
At the time of these events, Shiesty was under federal home confinement for an unrelated firearms charge in Florida, restricted from consuming drugs or alcohol. Prosecutors have presented text messages revealing Shiesty admitting to being intoxicated.
Currently, Pooh Shiesty remains incarcerated at the Kaufman County jail, having pleaded not guilty to all charges. His trial is scheduled for February, where he faces the prospect of a life sentence in federal prison.
