Crime
Federal Complaint Alleges Rapper Pooh Shiesty Arranged Armed Kidnapping, Robbery in Dallas Involving Rapper Gucci Mane
DALLAS, Texas — Federal authorities have charged nine individuals, including rappers Lontrell Denell Williams Jr., known as “Pooh Shiesty,” and Rodney Lamont Wright Jr., known as “Big30,” in connection with an alleged armed kidnapping and robbery that took place at a Dallas music studio, according to the U.S. Department of Justice (DOJ).
Eight of the nine suspects were taken into custody Wednesday during coordinated law enforcement operations in Dallas, Memphis, and Nashville.
One suspect, identified as Terrance Rodgers, remains at large.
According to the federal complaint, the incident occurred on January 10, when three music industry professionals traveled to Dallas for a meeting arranged by Williams Jr. The meeting was reportedly intended to discuss terms related to a recording contract.
Authorities allege that once the victims arrived at the studio, Williams Jr. and several co-conspirators—some of whom had traveled from Memphis—carried out a planned armed takeover of the location.
Federal prosecutors state that Williams Jr. brandished an AK-style firearm and forced one of the victims to sign a release from a recording contract at gunpoint. Meanwhile, other individuals involved in the incident allegedly displayed firearms and robbed the remaining victims of valuable property, including Rolex watches, jewelry, cash, and other high-value items.
During the course of the robbery, one victim was reportedly choked to the point of near unconsciousness.
Investigators also allege that Wright Jr., known as “Big30,” barricaded the door to prevent the victims from escaping.
Those charged in the case include:
- Lontrell Denell Williams Jr. (“Pooh Shiesty”)
- Lontrell Williams Sr.
- Rodney Lamont Wright Jr. (“Big30”)
- Kedarius Waters
- Terrance Rodgers (not yet arrested)
- Damarian Gipson
- Demarcus Glover
- Kordae Johnson
- Darrion McDaniel
Authorities allege that Williams Jr.’s father, Lontrell Williams Sr., assisted in planning and executing the operation.
Federal investigators have outlined multiple forms of evidence supporting the charges, including:
- Electronic monitoring data placing Williams Jr. at the scene in violation of his home detention conditions
- Cell phone records and license plate reader data showing coordinated travel by several suspects from Memphis to Dallas
- Rental car records linking Williams Sr. to a vehicle used during the incident
- Surveillance footage from the studio, nearby businesses, and a hotel where suspects allegedly stayed afterward
- Fingerprint evidence recovered from the scene
- Social media posts in which suspects allegedly displayed stolen items shortly after the incident
- Transportation records indicating travel from Dallas to Memphis following the alleged crime
Authorities also confirmed that FBI agents executed a search warrant at Williams Jr.’s residence in the Memphis area as part of the investigation.
At the time of the alleged offense, Williams Jr. was on home detention following his release from federal prison in October 2025.
He had previously served a three-year sentence after pleading guilty to firearms-related charges connected to crimes of violence and drug trafficking.
Conditions of his release prohibited him from committing new offenses or possessing firearms.
If convicted, each of the defendants could face significant penalties, including the possibility of life imprisonment, according to federal authorities.
The investigation remains ongoing as prosecutors continue to pursue the case.
Crime
40-Year-Old Shane Seiber, Philadelphia Police Officer and Combat Veteran, Dies After West Philly Ambush
PHILADELPHIA, Pennsylvania — Philadelphia Police Officer Shane Seiber, 40, has died after being shot during an early morning shooting in West Philadelphia, leaving behind his wife and two young children. Seiber was a 10-year veteran of the police department and a combat veteran who was remembered as a dedicated officer with a heart of gold.
Police Commissioner Kevin Bethel said Seiber’s wife and other family members were able to be with him at the hospital before he died. The department is mourning the loss as fellow officers gather to honor his service.
A second Philadelphia police officer who was wounded in the same incident is reportedly in stable condition, according to the latest information provided.
The shooting happened at approximately 1 a.m. Saturday, October 10, along the 100 block of North 52nd Street in West Philadelphia.
Both officers were assigned to the Philadelphia Police Department’s 19th District and were responding to reports of an armed man on a residential porch when they came under heavy gunfire, according to Police Commissioner Kevin Bethel.
Seiber suffered multiple gunshot wounds and was rushed to Penn Presbyterian Medical Center for emergency treatment. He later died at the hospital.
The 40-year-old officer had spent a decade serving the Philadelphia Police Department. He was also a combat veteran and a member of Philadelphia Police Academy Class 380.
Those remembering Seiber have described him as a man with a heart of gold who loved his job. His death has left his family and fellow officers grieving the loss of a husband, father and public servant.
Beyond his career in law enforcement, Seiber was a husband and father of two young children.
Commissioner Bethel confirmed that Seiber’s wife and other relatives were able to be at his side before he died. His family is now facing the painful reality of losing a loved one who devoted his life to serving others.
The loss has also deeply affected the Philadelphia Police Department, where colleagues are mourning an officer who served for 10 years.
As the department prepares to honor Seiber, thoughts and condolences are being shared for his wife, children, extended family and fellow officers.
A second officer was wounded during the same shooting and was also transported to Penn Presbyterian Medical Center.
Earlier reports described the surviving officer as being in critical condition. The latest information provided, however, says the officer is now in stable condition.
The officer’s identity has not been included in the information available for this report. Further updates may clarify the extent of the injuries and the officer’s recovery.
According to reports previously attributed to The Philadelphia Inquirer, the suspect allegedly ambushed the officers with a shotgun and later fired at additional officers responding to the scene.
The suspect reportedly fled before a SWAT team located the individual hiding in a tree and took the person into custody.
Investigators reportedly recovered three firearms, including a shotgun and a handgun believed to have been taken from one of the wounded officers.
An anonymous law enforcement source cited by The Philadelphia Inquirer named the alleged shooter as Eric Lewis, who was reportedly employed by the Philadelphia Water Department. Police had not officially confirmed that identity or announced charges in the information provided.
The investigation remains focused on the events leading up to the shooting and the circumstances surrounding the officers’ injuries.
Officer Shane Seiber’s death represents a profound loss for his family and the Philadelphia Police Department. A combat veteran and 10-year police veteran, he leaves behind a wife, two young children and colleagues who are mourning his death.
As fellow officers gather to honor his service, the department is also supporting the surviving officer and family members affected by the incident.
Our hearts are with Seiber’s family, especially his wife and children, as they navigate this unimaginable grief. We also hope the surviving officer continues to recover and receives the support needed in the days ahead.
Rest in peace, Officer Shane Seiber. Your service and sacrifice will not be forgotten.
The investigation into the West Philadelphia shooting is ongoing. Additional information may be released as authorities confirm further details.