MEMPHIS, Tenn. — Young Dolph A pivotal moment unfolded in a Memphis courtroom on Monday, as a man testified against his co-defendant in the high-profile murder case of rapper Young Dolph. Cornelius Smith revealed that he and another individual, Justin Johnson, were directly involved in the tragic shooting that claimed Young Dolph’s life, an act he claims was orchestrated by Big Jook, the brother of prominent rapper Yo Gotti.
In his testimony, Smith identified himself and Johnson as the figures observed on grainy surveillance footage from November 17, 2021. The video captured them exiting a white Mercedes outside a Memphis cookie shop shortly after Young Dolph entered, moments before they unleashed a barrage of gunfire in broad daylight, forever marking the day in the city’s history.
Young Dolph, born Adolph Thornton Jr., was a beloved figure in his hometown. His death sent shockwaves through the community, prompting immediate reactions and rendering an urgent search for the shooters. The rapper was shot at the cookie shop he frequented, bringing attention not just to the crime itself but also to the underlying tensions in the local music scene.
Young Dolph: Murder Trial
Smith’s testimony marked the beginning of Justin Johnson’s trial, during which he faces multiple charges: first-degree murder, conspiracy to commit murder, and possession of a firearm by a convicted felon. Smith, who himself faces similar charges, appeared intent on distancing himself from full responsibility, leading Johnson’s attorney, Luke Evans, to argue in his opening statements that the jury should question Smith’s credibility. Evans contended that Smith was merely trying to save himself from severe penalties by implicating Johnson. “Just because he wore similar clothes doesn’t mean he’s the person in the video,” Evans insisted, asserting Johnson’s innocence.
In the prosecution’s opening statements, Deputy District Attorney Paul Hagerman underscored Young Dolph’s unwavering resolve to carve out his own path in the music industry with his label, Paper Route Empire. “Trying to make it on your own can create enemies,” Hagerman pointedly remarked, emphasizing the various rivalries that had formed in the competitive music landscape. He recalled how Young Dolph had previously rejected enticing offers from the rival label founded by Yo Gotti, Cocaine Muzic Group. In doing so, he not only built his own artistic identity but also ignited tensions that would later manifest in dire consequences, including the release of diss tracks aimed at both the label and its associates, notably Big Jook.
Adding complexity to the narrative, it emerged that Young Dolph was no stranger to life-threatening encounters. He had narrowly escaped previous shootings, including an incident in September 2017, where he was shot multiple times in the aftermath of a skirmish outside a Los Angeles hotel. Earlier that same year, over a hundred shots were fired at his SUV in Charlotte, North Carolina, an experience that profoundly influenced his artistry and inspired the song “100 Shots.” Young Dolph attributed his survival to the bulletproof panels that fortified his vehicle, a testament to his awareness of the dangers lurking in his profession.
Tragically, Big Jook—who was born Anthony Mims—met a violent end himself in January 2024, when he was shot outside a local restaurant, bringing the cycle of violence full circle.
During his courtroom appearance, Smith recounted the harrowing moments after the shooting, revealing that he sustained injuries as well—shot in the arm and leg by Young Dolph’s brother, Marcus Thornton, as he fled the scene. His financial motives for participating in the crime came under scrutiny as he disclosed he had only received $800 before his arrest, with an additional $50,000 allegedly paid to his attorney by Big Jook after the fact.
When questioned by Deputy District Attorney Hagerman about his feelings after the chilling act, Smith responded candidly, “I wasn’t feeling anything at the time. Honestly, I was just focused on getting some money.” His admission laid bare the emotional turmoil he experienced, further complicated by the recent loss of his young son prior to the incident. Struggling to cope with grief, he turned to substance abuse, losing sight of his moral compass. However, he later revealed that once he sobered up in jail, regret began to weigh heavily on his conscience.
The case has also shone a spotlight on Jermarcus Johnson, who is not related to Justin Johnson. He pleaded guilty in June 2023 to three counts of serving as an accessory after the fact, providing support to the two shooters while they evaded law enforcement. His role included facilitating communication via cellphone during their flight from justice, as well as assisting one of the suspects in maintaining contact with a probation officer. Jermarcus Johnson is currently awaiting sentencing.
In contrast, Hernandez Govan has pleaded not guilty to charges related to orchestrating the murder, complicating the case further as it unfolds in the courtroom.
Young Dolph’s legacy, however, extends far beyond the tragic circumstances of his death. He began his journey in the music industry with a series of mixtapes, launching his career with “Paper Route Campaign” in 2008. Over the years, he produced numerous studio albums, including his critically acclaimed debut “King of Memphis” released in 2016. His collaborations with prominent artists such as Key Glock, Megan Thee Stallion, T.I., Gucci Mane, and 2 Chainz showcased his versatility and solidified his standing in hip-hop. Notably, three of his albums reached the coveted top 10 on the Billboard 200, with the 2020 album “Rich Slave” peaking at No. 4, further affirming his impact on the music landscape.
As the trial continues, the courtroom remains a focal point for examining the intricate web of rivalries, loss, and the harsh realities of the music industry—echoing the tumultuous legacy of Young Dolph. His story serves as a poignant reminder of both the potential for artistic greatness and the very real dangers that can accompany it.
