Life Sentence for Justin Johnson in Young Dolph’s Murder

A Memphis man, Justin Johnson, has been found guilty of murdering renowned rapper Young Dolph, also known as Adolph Thornton Jr. The jury delivered the verdict on September 26, and Johnson was subsequently sentenced to life in prison.

Shelby County District Attorney Steve Mulroy emphasized the importance of the guilty verdict, stating, "Every murder’s a tragedy, and we take them all seriously. 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 murder trial lasted four days, with the jury deliberating for four hours before reaching a verdict. Johnson was found guilty of first-degree murder, conspiracy to commit first-degree murder, and being a convicted felon in possession of a handgun.

Young Dolph was killed on November 17, 2021, when Johnson and another gunman, Cornelius Smith, fired shots into Makeda’s Homemade Butter Cookies on Airways Boulevard in Memphis. Smith, who has confessed to the crime, testified that he and Johnson carried out a $100,000 hit on the rapper at the request of Yo Gotti’s brother, Anthony "Big Jook" Mims. Mims was murdered outside the Perignons Restaurant and Event Center in Memphis on January 13, 2024.

According to Assistant District Attorney Paul Hagerman and Smith’s testimony, Johnson and Smith were set to receive $50,000 each for Dolph’s murder and give $10,000 of that to Hernandez Govan, who put them in contact with Jook. Neither of the guns used to kill Dolph were ever found.

The guilty verdict brings closure to Young Dolph’s family and fans, who continue to fight for justice. The case serves as a reminder of the devastating impact of violence and the importance of holding those responsible accountable.