In a major update on the 2021 murder of rapper Young Dolph, one of the men involved, Justin Johnson, has been sentenced to life in prison. On Thursday, September 26, Johnson was found guilty of first-degree murder, conspiracy to commit murder, and possessing a firearm as a convicted felon. The verdict came after a four-day trial, with the jury taking nearly four hours to reach a decision.
Young Dolph, born Adolph Robert Thornton Jr., was tragically shot and killed outside a bakery in Memphis, Makeda’s Butter Cookies, on November 17, 2021. He was just 36 years old. His death sent shockwaves through the community, as he was not only known for his music but also his efforts in business and charity.
During the trial, co-defendant Cornelius Smith testified that both he and Johnson were paid $40,000 each to carry out the murder. Smith revealed that Hernandez Govan had organized the “hit,” following instructions from Anthony Mims, also known as Big Jook. Mims, the brother of Memphis rapper Yo Gotti, allegedly agreed to pay Govan $10,000 for planning the killing. However, Mims himself was later shot and killed in January, and his death remains unsolved.
After the verdict, Young Dolph’s sister, Carlissa Thornton, shared an emotional statement. She expressed how her family has been deeply affected by the loss. Young Dolph, she reminded everyone, was more than just a rapper. He was a father, son, brother, and a positive force in his community. She thanked the jury for their decision and urged people to focus on the life Dolph lived, not the crime that took him away.
She asked that everyone remember him as a family man who loved spending time with his children and as someone who was dedicated to helping others, especially those often overlooked. His family and supporters continue to seek justice and hope that his legacy of giving and kindness will be remembered more than the tragedy of his death.
Young Dolph’s murder case has left a lasting impact on his family, friends, and fans. The verdict brings some sense of closure, but the search for full justice continues as the people behind the crime are still under investigation.
