Rapper Gucci Mane Kidnapped and Robbed by Fellow Artist, Prosecutors Say

Arrests Follow Alleged Ambush in Dallas

Officials have announced the arrest of eight individuals, including a rapper under Gucci Mane’s label, after the artist was allegedly taken hostage by gunfire in Dallas earlier this year. Prosecutors claim Pooh Shiesty, whose real name is Lontrell Williams Jr., orchestrated the attack during what was supposed to be a routine meeting, detaining Mane in a recording studio and compelling him to sign documents freeing him from his contractual obligations.

Background on the Rapper and His Label

Gucci Mane, based in Atlanta, has worked with prominent musicians like Usher, Doja Cat, and Drake. He established his record label, 1017 Records, in 2007, and Williams Jr. joined as an artist in 2020. The defendants, who have yet to plead guilty, may face life imprisonment if found guilty of the charges. Seven of the nine accused were arrested in Dallas, Memphis, and Nashville, facing federal charges for kidnapping and armed robbery.

Details of the Attack

A federal complaint states the incident occurred on January 10, when Williams Jr. was expected to be on house arrest for a prior firearms conspiracy conviction. He allegedly gathered eight accomplices, including his father, Lontrell Williams Sr., to carry out the crime. According to an FBI sworn statement, Williams Jr. brandished a “black AK-style pistol” and forced Mane to sign paperwork. The rapper also lost his wedding ring, watch, earrings, and cash, while other victims had their belongings stolen, such as a Rolex watch, Louis Vuitton bag, AirPods, and wallet.

“Within hours of leaving the Dallas studio, several defendants shared stolen jewelry on social media, appearing to confirm the items taken from victims,” said US Attorney Ryan Raybould during a press briefing on Thursday.

Prosecutors report that Mane and other victims believed they were about to be executed before being ordered to exit the building and head to their cars. The remaining suspect is still being hunted, with Georgia authorities assisting in the search. No immediate responses were received from representatives of Williams Jr. or Mane regarding the allegations.