Justin Johnson Found Guilty in the Fatal Shooting of Memphis Rapper Young Dolph

Memphis, TN – Justin Johnson, one of the men accused in the murder of Memphis rapper Adolph Thornton Jr., known as Young Dolph, was found guilty of First Degree Murder, Conspiracy to Commit First Degree Murder, and Convicted Felon in Possession of a Firearm. After nearly four hours of deliberation, a jury returned a guilty verdict on all three counts. The verdict follows a four-day trial in which the State presented multiple witnesses, including one of the co-defendants, Cornelius Smith, who confessed to participating in the shooting alongside Johnson with the expectation of receiving $40,000 each for shooting the slain rapper.

Smith testified that the ‘hit’ was orchestrated by Hernandez Govan, another defendant charged in the case, who was allegedly acting on instructions from Anthony Mims, also known as Big Jook, the brother of Memphis rapper Yo Gotti. According to Smith, Big Book ordered the $100,000 and he and Johnson were to give Govan $10,000 each for facilitating. The State also presented video evidence during the trial, further implicating Johnson as one of the shooters involved in the tragic incident.

“Every murder’s a tragedy, and we take them all seriously,” said District Attorney Steve Mulroy. “ This one generated extra public interest because Young Dolph was a prominent and beloved member of the community. We will continue to fight hard to make sure that all of those responsible for his death are brought to justice.”

The fatal shooting of Young Dolph occurred on November 17, 2021, outside of a cookie shop in South Memphis.

This guilty verdict marks a significant step toward justice for Young Dolph and his family as the legal process continues for the other defendants charged in the case. The judge sentenced Johnson to life in prison.

Deputy District Attorney Paul Hagerman and Assistant District Attorney Irris Williams tried the case.

For Media Inquiries: Erica Williams, media@scdag.com.