In Memphis, Tennessee, a man named Cornelius Smith testified that he and another person, Justin Johnson, shot and killed rapper Young Dolph in November 2021. Smith claimed that Big Jook, the brother of rapper Yo Gotti, had put a hit on Young Dolph. Johnson is currently on trial for murder, conspiracy to commit murder, and being a felon in possession of a gun, while Smith also faces similar charges. Johnson’s defense attorney argued that Smith’s testimony should not be trusted, as he was trying to save himself. The attorney claimed that just because Johnson was wearing similar clothes to the person in the surveillance video does not mean he is the same person.
Deputy District Attorney Paul Hagerman stated in opening statements that Young Dolph, whose real name was Adolph Thornton Jr., was determined to succeed as an artist with his own label, Paper Route Empire. Hagerman suggested that Young Dolph’s independence had created enemies, including the rival record label Cocaine Muzic Group, founded by Yo Gotti. Young Dolph had reportedly turned down an offer to work with Cocaine Muzic Group, leading to diss tracks being written against the label and its associates. The prosecutor highlighted Young Dolph’s previous experiences with shootings, including surviving multiple gunshot wounds in previous incidents.
Smith, the witness in the trial, testified that he was shot by Young Dolph’s brother as he fled the scene of the shooting at the cookie store. Despite receiving only $800 prior to his arrest, Smith mentioned that his attorney was paid $50,000 by Big Jook. He admitted that at the time of the shooting, he was focused on getting money and did not feel any remorse. However, after sobering up in jail, Smith claimed that his conscience began to bother him, especially considering the recent loss of his young son. Another individual, Jermarcus Johnson, pleaded guilty to serving as an accessory after the killing by helping Smith and Justin Johnson communicate while they were on the run.
Hernandez Govan has pleaded not guilty to organizing the killing of Young Dolph. The rapper had a successful career with multiple mixtapes and albums, including collaborations with well-known artists such as Key Glock, Megan Thee Stallion, T.I., Gucci Mane, and 2 Chainz. Young Dolph’s albums had reached the top 10 on the Billboard 200 chart, with his 2020 release, “Rich Slave,” peaking at No. 4. The trial surrounding Young Dolph’s murder continues, with testimony shedding light on the events leading up to the tragic shooting. Media reports have also mentioned Big Jook, whose real name is Anthony Mims, as being shot and killed outside a restaurant in January 2024. The fallout from Young Dolph’s death continues to impact the music industry and his fans.
