“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 recent charges against rapper Pooh Shiesty.
On April 2, 2026, the DOJ announced that Pooh Shiesty, along with eight other suspects, has been charged with kidnapping and robbery at gunpoint. The incident reportedly took place on January 10, 2026, during a business meeting at a Dallas music studio.
According to the allegations, Pooh Shiesty forced one victim to sign a release from his recording contract at gunpoint. The victims were robbed of high-value items including Rolex watches, jewelry, and cash. One individual was even choked to near unconsciousness during the violent encounter.
At the time of the incident, Pooh Shiesty was on home confinement due to a prior firearms conspiracy conviction. The alleged kidnapping is said to have stemmed from a dispute over his contract with Gucci Mane’s 1017 Records, a label known for its influence in the trap music genre.
The DOJ claims Shiesty and his alleged co-conspirators executed an armed takeover, which has raised serious concerns about the use of violence in the music industry. Ryan Raybould further emphasized, “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.”
Eight of the nine suspects involved in the incident were arrested across three cities: Memphis, Nashville, and Dallas. Photos released by the DOJ revealed injuries sustained by one of the victims during the incident.
If convicted, each defendant could face up to life in prison, highlighting the severity of the charges against them. Additionally, Pooh Shiesty’s father was also arrested in connection with the case.
As the legal proceedings unfold, further details regarding the incident and the defendants’ actions are expected to emerge, shedding light on the circumstances surrounding this alarming event.
