Memphis-based rapper Pooh Shiesty, born Lontrell Williams Jr., has been released from federal custody, as confirmed by his attorney and court records. In 2022, Williams faced a sentence of over five years in a federal prison on gun-related charges stemming from an incident the year prior. His incarceration was based on a guilty plea of conspiring to possess firearms in aid of crimes of violence and drug trafficking.
Williams' attorney, Bradford Cohen, shared the news of his client's release on social media, marking an end to the sentence that was originally set to conclude in April 2026. A part of the rapper's early departure from USP Canaan, a federal penitentiary in Pennsylvania, can be attributed to a combination of time served and good behavior. This early relief from confinement was initially hinted at by the rapper himself in a post reflective in nature to his fans back in August. In a statement obtained by Hot97, Williams said, "Shout-out to all the ones who counted me down and not out."
While serving time, Williams remained vocal about his experiences behind bars, expressing gratitude for the support he received. The celebration of his release was marked with online footage of the artist at a poolside gathering adorned with "welcome home" banners, and him walking into a festivity with friends and well-wishers. The images circulated quickly among fans, eager to see the artist once known for tracks like "Should’ve Ducked" back in the free world.
Information regarding Williams' current status — whether he is under some form of federal monitoring or parole — remains unconfirmed. Federal Bureau of Prisons records simply reflect that the rapper is no longer in custody. The adjustment back to life outside the bars is often not just a narrative of newfound freedom, but also a complex journey of reintegration. Acting as his own beacon of resilience, Williams' release is potentially a pivot back to his creative endeavors, with plans to re-enter the studio, as indicated by his attorney. "Lontrell is looking forward to getting back to the studio and making music again," Cohen told Action News 5.
