A trial is underway for one of the men accused in the murder of Memphis rapper Young Dolph, who was killed on November 17, 2021, at Makeda’s Cookies. Justin Johnson and Cornelius Smith Jr. are both charged with first-degree murder, among other felonies, in connection with Dolph’s death.
Shelby County District Attorney Steve Mulroy indicated that Smith is cooperating with the prosecution, but he did not provide further details. Johnson is the only one currently on trial and is pleading not guilty, with the trial expected to conclude by September 26. Hernandez Govan, who prosecutors allege orchestrated the hit on Dolph, was seen in the courtroom and is anticipated to testify.
Opening statements began early, with Deputy District Attorney Paul Hagerman presenting video evidence from the night of the shooting and discussing Dolph’s career. It was noted that Dolph rejected offers from the music label Collective Music Group (CMG) and had a history of diss tracks against them, suggesting a rivalry that escalated to violence.
Hagerman stated that Johnson and Smith, neither of whom were professional hitmen, were allegedly recruited to carry out the murder for financial gain and fame. Video footage presented in court showed the suspects exiting a stolen vehicle to shoot Dolph, while Smith allegedly returned fire, injuring his accomplice.
Defense attorney Luke Evans argued that Govan sought to exploit young rappers, including Johnson, for financial gain. He described how Johnson distanced himself from Govan, which may have led to revenge motives. Evans suggested that Smith’s testimony would be self-serving to save himself from jail.
In subsequent witness testimonies, Erica Thornton, Dolph’s sister, and Blue Hopkins, Dolph’s friend and security, described their relationships with Dolph and provided context regarding the rivalry between Dolph and CMG.
Cornelius Smith later took the stand, admitting to drug use and detailing his agreement with Johnson to kill Dolph in exchange for a reward. Smith claimed to have identified themselves as the shooters and acknowledged he was shot during the incident. His testimony included a recounting of events leading up to the murder, their actions afterward, and communications with others involved.
The prosecution also called Dr. Juliette Scantlebury, who performed Dolph’s autopsy. She detailed the severe injuries he sustained, confirming he had 20 gunshot wounds, eight of which were potentially fatal.
The trial is set to continue, with jurors instructed not to discuss the case. The murder of Young Dolph has drawn significant attention, culminating in updated trial dates and the involvement of an outside jury due to the high media scrutiny.