Memphis rapper Pooh Shiesty, born Lontrell Williams Jr., is officially a free man. After serving more than four years of a 63-month federal sentence, the 24-year-old artist was quietly released from prison this week, nearly two years ahead of schedule. His early freedom comes as a result of time served and good behavior, marking what his legal team describes as the beginning of a “new chapter” for the rising Southern rapper once hailed as one of hip-hop’s most promising young stars.

Williams was sentenced in April 2022 after pleading guilty to a single federal charge of conspiracy to possess a firearm in furtherance of violent crime. The case stemmed from an October 2020 confrontation in Bay Harbor Islands, Florida, during what prosecutors said was a botched drug and sneaker deal. The incident escalated into gunfire that left one man wounded in the buttocks and eventually led to Williams’ arrest.

Initially facing up to 97 months behind bars, Shiesty accepted a plea agreement that reduced the charge and allowed for a lighter sentence. U.S. District Judge Kevin Michael Moore handed down a 63-month sentence, which at the time the rapper publicly described as “fair” and said he was “happy with.” The plea deal dismissed three additional counts, sparing him the possibility of a much lengthier sentence.

Attorney Bradford Cohen, who represented Williams throughout the case, confirmed his early release in a statement to XXL, praising the judge’s decision and his client’s progress. “I am elated that Pooh has been released after three years,” Cohen said. “The government fought hard to give him ten, but the judge saw that it wasn’t appropriate. I know he’ll come back bigger than ever and has learned from this experience.”

Cohen added that Williams’ time behind bars gave him perspective and drive. “This is the beginning of his second act,” he said, expressing confidence that his client’s return to music will be both redemptive and explosive.

Shortly after his release, videos and photos surfaced on social media showing Shiesty reuniting with friends and collaborators in Memphis. Among those welcoming him home were fellow rappers Big30, his frequent collaborator and childhood friend, and K Carbon. The celebratory clips show the artist smiling, surrounded by family, friends, and fans, as he reenters a world that hasn’t forgotten him.

The rapper’s return has already sparked excitement among his loyal fan base, with hashtags like #FreePoohShiesty and #WelcomeHomePooh trending across platforms. While no official statement has yet been released from his management team, industry insiders expect new music to arrive soon.

Before his legal troubles, Pooh Shiesty was one of the brightest stars in trap music’s new generation. Signed to Gucci Mane’s 1017 Records and Atlantic, his 2021 mixtape Shiesty Season debuted at No. 3 on the Billboard 200, powered by hits like “Back in Blood” featuring Lil Durk. His aggressive flow, Memphis drawl, and knack for vivid storytelling drew comparisons to Southern rap legends, while his distinctive style helped define an era.

Perhaps unintentionally, his frequent use of balaclavas became a cultural trend. Fans began calling the face coverings “shiesties,” blending streetwear and identity in a way that reflected both fashion and defiance during the COVID-19 pandemic. Even as his legal troubles mounted, his aesthetic influence continued to ripple across music and fashion.

At 24, Williams now has the rare opportunity to rebuild a career that was paused just as it was taking off. Sources close to the artist say he’s been writing music while incarcerated and plans to channel his experiences into a more reflective body of work.