Pooh Shiesty’s lawyer is challenging allegations that the rapper orchestrated a kidnapping and robbery involving Gucci Mane, arguing that the case is far more intricate than presented.
John Helms, Shiesty’s defense attorney, joined the case just a day earlier and immediately countered prosecutors’ claims. Helms portrayed Shiesty, whose real name is Lontrell Williams Jr., as a thriving artist in the entertainment industry.
Speaking to The Dallas Morning News on April 5, Helms stated: “The government tries to characterize this as a dispute over money between Lontrell and his record label, but in this business, things are very often not what they seem, and people’s motivations are very often not what they seem.”
Helms expressed confidence that Shiesty’s side of the story will diverge significantly from the version presented by prosecutors, hinting at upcoming revelations as the legal proceedings unfold.
“We will be presenting Lontrell’s side of the case as the case goes on, and I think it’s going to be significantly different from what the government says,” he added.
Federal authorities allege that Shiesty played a leadership role in a January incident where Gucci Mane (legal name Radric Davis) was reportedly kidnapped and robbed. Gucci Mane had signed Shiesty to his 1017 Records label.
Prosecutors claim Shiesty arranged a business meeting with Gucci, reportedly in an attempt to secure release from his recording contract. The meeting allegedly took a violent turn when Shiesty allegedly brandished an AK-style weapon after Gucci refused to sign the paperwork.
Authorities say Shiesty took Gucci’s wedding ring, luxury watch, earrings, cash, and other valuables. A member of the group purportedly filmed the incident using a smartphone.
According to court documents referenced by The Dallas Morning News, once the group regrouped in the main room, additional individuals brandished firearms and demanded possessions from others at the scene. The alleged loot included expensive watches, wallets, jewelry branded with “1017,” a Louis Vuitton bag containing more high-end items, and Apple AirPods.
Shiesty’s alleged co-conspirators span multiple connections, including his father Lontrell Williams Sr., along with Kedarius Waters, Kordae Johnson, Demarcus Glover, Damarian Gipson, Darrion McDaniel, and Terrance Rodgers. Memphis rapper Big30 (Rodney Lamont Wright Jr.) was also reportedly arrested in relation to the case.
The defendants face serious charges of kidnapping and conspiracy that could lead to decades — or potentially life — in prison if convicted.
