The courtroom was silent as the jury handed down its verdict: Justin Johnson, the man accused of killing Memphis rapper Young Dolph, was found guilty of first-degree murder, conspiracy to commit murder, and being a felon in possession of a firearm. The verdict, reached on September 26, 2024, marks the end of a highly publicized trial that spanned over four days of testimony.
Immediately after the decision was announced, Shelby County Criminal Court Judge Jennifer Mitchell sentenced Johnson to life in prison. The jury took just under four hours to deliberate, weighing the evidence presented by the prosecution and the defense. Johnson, who did not testify in his own defense, remained stoic as his fate was sealed.
A Loss Felt Across Memphis and Beyond
The murder of Young Dolph, whose real name was Adolph Robert Thornton Jr., rocked not only Memphis but also the hip-hop community and the city’s residents. As a philanthropist, artist, father, and businessman, Young Dolph’s impact on Memphis was vast. His sister, Carlissa Thornton, addressed the media following the verdict, offering a statement on behalf of the family.
“On November 17, 2021, our lives changed forever. A son, a father, a brother, a businessman, a music artist, and a philanthropist—these are just a few of the titles my brother held. His absence leaves a void in the lives of so many,” she said. “We are grateful for the jury’s decision, and this brings us one step closer to justice.”
She expressed gratitude to the District Attorney’s office, Memphis Police, and the investigators who worked tirelessly to bring the case to trial. Despite the conclusion of Johnson’s trial, Carlissa urged the public to focus on Young Dolph’s legacy and the positive impact he had on the community.
A Compelling Case Presented by the Prosecution
During the trial, the prosecution painted a vivid picture of the events leading up to and following Young Dolph’s murder at Makeda’s Cookies on Airways Boulevard. Key evidence included video surveillance and photo evidence that showed Johnson at critical locations before and after the crime. This evidence was a crucial part of the prosecution’s case, demonstrating Johnson’s involvement beyond reasonable doubt.
“We believe we were able to provide clarity on what happened before, during, and after the murder,” said Shelby County Deputy District Attorney Paul Hagerman. “The investigators did an incredible job piecing together what happened.”
The prosecution’s case was further strengthened by testimony from Cornelius Smith, who was also charged in the murder. Smith, who admitted to killing Dolph on the first day of trial, testified against Johnson. While the defense argued that Johnson was not the man holding the gun, the jury clearly saw otherwise.
Defense’s Struggles to Counter the Prosecution
Johnson’s defense attorney, Luke Evans, maintained that his client was not the individual responsible for the murder of Young Dolph. “He didn’t kill Adolph Thornton Jr. He didn’t conspire to kill him,” Evans said during closing arguments. Despite the defense’s efforts to introduce reasonable doubt, the jury was not swayed.
The defense made a motion for acquittal after the prosecution rested its case, arguing that the evidence was insufficient, especially regarding the conspiracy charge. Judge Jennifer Mitchell denied the motion, allowing the case to proceed to closing arguments.
Evans also anticipated that Hernandez Govan, who was accused of orchestrating the hit on Young Dolph, would testify, but Govan did not take the stand. Govan and another defendant, Cornelius Smith, are scheduled for upcoming court dates in October and November, continuing the legal battle surrounding Young Dolph’s tragic death.
A Community Left Mourning
The verdict has brought some closure to the Memphis community, but it has not eased the grief felt by those who knew and loved Young Dolph. His partner, Mia Jaye, posted a heartfelt statement after the verdict was announced. The pain of losing Dolph reverberates beyond his family, touching fans and community members alike.
Shelby County District Attorney General Steve Mulroy acknowledged the deep impact this case has had on Memphis. “Every murder is a tragedy, but this one has drawn extra attention because Young Dolph was such a beloved figure. We will keep working to ensure that all individuals responsible for this crime are brought to justice,” he said.
While Justin Johnson’s trial has concluded, the cases against Cornelius Smith and Hernandez Govan remain. Johnson’s life sentence marks a significant moment in this long legal process, but the fight for full justice in Young Dolph’s murder continues.
Remembering Young Dolph’s Legacy
As the trial reaches its conclusion, the focus shifts back to the legacy Young Dolph left behind. His family, friends, and supporters are asking the public to remember the man behind the music—a man who gave back to his community, supported those from disadvantaged backgrounds, and used his platform to inspire positive change.
Carlissa Thornton’s plea resonates with everyone who admired Young Dolph: “We ask that instead of focusing on those who committed this crime, you focus on the man that Adolph Robert Thornton Jr. was. Regardless of how you knew him—Adolph, Dolph, or Young Dolph—we want his legacy to live on through the good he did.”
The coming months will see further trials for the remaining defendants, but for now, the Johnson trial has provided a sense of justice. Young Dolph’s legacy lives on through his music, his family, and the impact he made on the lives of those who looked up to him.
