Prosecutors revealed during their opening statements that Cornelius Smith will testify against Justin Johnson, while the defense indicated that Hernandez Govan would also take the stand.
The trial for Justin Johnson commenced on Monday, September 23, 2024, regarding the murder of Memphis rapper Young Dolph, whose real name was Adolph Thornton Jr. Johnson faces serious charges including first-degree murder, unlawful possession of a firearm, and theft of property related to Dolph’s death.
Due to the extensive media coverage in Shelby County, an outside jury from Davidson County is presiding over the case.
Cornelius Smith Jr. and Hernandez Govan were initially set to be tried alongside Johnson. Smith is facing charges similar to those of Johnson, including first-degree murder and unlawful possession of a firearm.
In the prosecution’s opening statement, it was disclosed that Smith is prepared to testify against Johnson. Govan is accused of orchestrating the murder of Young Dolph, and during the defense’s opening statement, it was mentioned that Govan would also provide testimony against Johnson.
Shelby County District Attorney Steve Mulroy stated that Smith is cooperating with the prosecution but declined to comment about Govan’s situation. Mulroy noted that the outcomes for both Smith and Govan will be determined either through a plea agreement or by trial.
Additionally, a fourth suspect, Jermarcus Johnson, pleaded guilty in October 2023 to three counts of accessory after the fact and faces a sentence of six to 12 years in prison.
The murder of Young Dolph, who was shot and killed at Makeda’s Cookies on Airways Boulevard on November 17, 2021, has had a significant impact both locally in Memphis and across the nation. At the time of the incident, police reported that two men exited a stolen Mercedes-Benz and opened fire at the establishment where Dolph was purchasing cookies. Surveillance footage played a key role in the subsequent arrests.