Gucci Mane was allegedly kidnapped and robbed at gunpoint during a recording studio ambush in Dallas, according to a federal complaint announced by the United States Department of Justice.
Nine individuals — including rappers Pooh Shiesty and Big30 — have been charged in connection with the incident, which authorities say was a premeditated attack disguised as a business meeting.
A meeting gone wrong
The alleged ambush took place on 10 January, when Gucci Mane (real name Radric Davis) travelled to Dallas for what he believed was a meeting tied to a contract dispute involving Pooh Shiesty (Lontrell Williams Jr.).
Instead, prosecutors say the situation escalated into a coordinated armed takeover at a recording studio on Dallas Parkway. Upon arrival, victims were reportedly separated, with Pooh Shiesty allegedly escorting Gucci Mane into a recording room.
Inside, authorities claim he pulled an AK-style firearm and forced the Atlanta rapper — head of 1017 Records — to sign paperwork releasing him from his contract.
Chaos inside the studio
While that unfolded, other suspects allegedly robbed individuals in a separate control room. Victims were reportedly assaulted, with one being choked to near unconsciousness while others were stripped of valuables including jewellery, cash, and designer items.
Prosecutors say Big30 (Rodney Wright Jr.) helped block exits, preventing anyone from escaping as the robbery took place.
At one point, victims believed their lives were in danger before being ordered out of the studio.
Evidence and arrests
Eight of the nine suspects were arrested across Dallas and Memphis in the days leading up to the DOJ announcement. Investigators say the attack was carefully planned, citing:
- Surveillance footage and license plate data tracking movements
- Cellphone records placing suspects at the scene
- Fingerprints recovered inside the studio
- Social media posts showing cash and jewellery believed to be stolen
Authorities also allege that Pooh Shiesty was at the studio despite being on home confinement for a prior federal firearms conviction.
What happens next
All nine defendants now face charges of kidnapping and conspiracy to commit kidnapping. If convicted, each could face life in federal prison.
The case is currently being led by the FBI Dallas Violent Crimes Task Force, with support from agencies across Texas and Tennessee.
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