The Young Dolph murder trial took a significant turn this week with explosive testimony alleging that Anthony Mims, known as ‘Big Jook,’ the brother of rapper Yo Gotti, ordered the fatal hit. Young Dolph, whose real name was Adolph Thornton Jr., was gunned down outside Makeda’s Homemade Butter Cookies in Memphis on November 17, 2021.
Cornelius Smith, one of two men accused in the killing, took the stand on September 23, 2024, in the trial of his co-defendant, Justin Johnson. During his testimony, Smith directly implicated both Johnson and Big Jook in the murder plot. Smith testified that Big Jook offered a financial incentive to execute the hit on Young Dolph, revealing that he received $800 before the shooting and that Big Jook later paid an additional $50,000 to his lawyer after his arrest.
Smith’s testimony provides the prosecution with a critical narrative as they try to secure a conviction for Johnson, who is charged with first-degree murder, conspiracy to commit murder, and possession of a firearm by a convicted felon.
Explosive Testimony Unfolds in Court
In a detailed account, Cornelius Smith identified himself and Justin Johnson as the two individuals seen in surveillance footage exiting a white Mercedes and firing at Young Dolph just 30 seconds after the rapper entered the cookie store. Smith described how both men opened fire on Young Dolph in broad daylight, killing him at the scene. Smith also testified that as he fled the crime scene, he was shot by Young Dolph’s brother, Marcus Thornton, sustaining injuries to his arm and leg.
Deputy District Attorney Paul Hagerman used Smith’s testimony to paint a picture of a calculated murder, allegedly orchestrated by Big Jook as part of a long-standing feud between Young Dolph and Yo Gotti’s Collective Music Group (formerly Cocaine Muzic Group). The rivalry between the two Memphis artists had been public, with Young Dolph releasing diss tracks aimed at the label and its key figures, including Big Jook.
Hagerman also highlighted that Young Dolph had survived multiple attempts on his life before the fatal attack. In 2017, Dolph’s SUV was shot more than 100 times in Charlotte, North Carolina—a pivotal moment that inspired his song “100 Shots.” Later that year, he was critically injured in a separate shooting outside a Los Angeles hotel.
Defense Challenges Credibility of Testimony
Justin Johnson, also known by his rap alias Straight Drop, has maintained his innocence throughout the trial. His defense attorney, Luke Evans, argued that Smith’s testimony is not trustworthy, suggesting that Smith, who faces his own murder and conspiracy charges, is cooperating with prosecutors in an effort to secure a lighter sentence for himself.
Evans emphasized that visual evidence—such as photos of Johnson wearing clothing similar to the gunman seen in surveillance footage—was circumstantial. “Photos don’t mean he’s the same person,” Evans told the jury, urging them to question the reliability of Smith’s narrative.
Despite the defense’s objections, Smith’s testimony may prove to be a pivotal moment in the case against Johnson, who faces life in prison if convicted.
Complex Web of Accused in Young Dolph’s Killing
Smith and Johnson are not the only individuals implicated in the high-profile murder. Johnson’s half-brother, Jermarcus Johnson, pleaded guilty in June 2023 to multiple counts of accessory after the fact. Prosecutors argued that Jermarcus Johnson helped the shooters communicate with each other and evade authorities in the days following the killing. He has yet to be sentenced for his role in the crime.
Another defendant, Hernandez Govan, has pleaded not guilty to charges of organizing the killing. Govan, along with Jermarcus Johnson, allegedly played a key role in coordinating the fatal attack on Young Dolph.
A Legacy Cut Short
Young Dolph was a celebrated figure in both the rap community and Memphis, known for his independent success with his label, Paper Route Empire, and for his contributions to the city. He began his career in 2008 with a series of mixtapes, eventually breaking into the mainstream with albums like King of Memphis (2016) and Rich Slave (2020), the latter peaking at No. 4 on the Billboard 200 chart.
In addition to his music, Young Dolph was widely recognized for his philanthropic efforts, including organizing annual Thanksgiving turkey giveaways in his hometown and donating to local schools.
What’s Next in the Trial?
With testimony from key witnesses like Cornelius Smith, the trial of Justin Johnson is expected to unfold over the next several weeks. The court will continue to examine evidence and hear from other witnesses, including law enforcement and forensic experts. Big Jook, although implicated in Smith’s testimony, has not been charged in connection with Young Dolph’s murder.
As the trial continues, many in the Memphis community are watching closely, seeking justice for the beloved rapper and father of two.
