Memphis jurors deliberated for several hours before reaching a verdict on Thursday, finding Justin Johnson guilty of the murder of Young Dolph in 2021. The jury unanimously convicted Johnson on charges of first-degree murder, conspiracy to commit first-degree murder, and being a convicted felon in possession of a firearm. Judge Jennifer Mitchell wasted no time in sentencing him to life in prison.
During the trial, closing arguments were presented, with Johnson choosing not to take the stand. However, his accomplice, Smith, testified that Yo Gotti’s slain brother, Big Jook, and suspect Hernandez Govan orchestrated the plan to target any Paper Route Empire rappers they could find. Smith revealed that they spotted Young Dolph on November 17, 2021, and opened fire outside Makeda’s Cookies shop while the rapper was buying treats for his mother.
Smith admitted to his role in Dolph’s murder, stating that he felt no emotions at the time due to his drug addiction. He confessed that he was looking forward to collecting a $40,000 payment for the hit. Prosecutors argued that Govan had promised Johnson a record deal with Gotti’s CMG Records in exchange for the murder.
Despite the plan, Smith only received $800 for the crime, and both he and Johnson fled the scene. They were later apprehended in January 2022. Throughout the ordeal, Young Dolph’s friends and family, led by his children’s mother, Mia Jaye, have worked tirelessly to preserve his legacy through music releases and community service initiatives while seeking justice for his untimely death.
Finally, after a long legal battle, Young Dolph’s loved ones have received the closure they have been seeking. The guilty verdict brings a sense of justice for the beloved rapper and provides a measure of peace for those who mourn his loss.
