A Memphis man convicted of fatally shooting rapper Young Dolph in 2021 has been sentenced to life in prison.
Justin Johnson was found guilty of first-degree murder, conspiracy to commit first-degree murder, and possession of a firearm as a convicted felon in the killing of Young Dolph, born Adolph Robert Thornton Jr. The sentencing was handed down on Thursday, September 26, following a four-day trial and nearly four hours of jury deliberation, according to the Shelby County District Attorney’s Office.
The beloved Memphis artist, known for his contributions to music and the community, was gunned down outside Makeda’s Butter Cookies on Airways Boulevard on November 17, 2021. He was 36 years old.
During the trial, co-defendant Cornelius Smith testified that he and Johnson were offered $40,000 each to kill the rapper. Smith implicated Hernandez Govan as the mastermind behind the hit, claiming they were following orders given by Anthony “Big Jook” Mims, the brother of Memphis rapper Yo Gotti. Govan was allegedly set to pay Mims and Johnson $10,000 each for organizing the murder. Mims was shot and killed in January 2023, with no arrests yet made in connection to his death, according to the Memphis Police Department.
“This case garnered significant attention because of Young Dolph’s status as a prominent and beloved figure in our community,” said District Attorney Steve Mulroy. “While every murder is tragic, this one has deeply affected the city of Memphis. We are committed to ensuring that everyone involved in this senseless act is held accountable.”
Following the verdict, Young Dolph’s sister, Carlissa Thornton, addressed the media, expressing her gratitude to the jury and reflecting on her brother’s legacy. “On November 17, 2021, our lives were forever changed. My brother, Adolph Robert Thornton Jr., held many roles—son, father, brother, friend, businessman, music artist, philanthropist, and life partner. His absence leaves an unfillable void in the lives of so many,” she said.
Thornton also urged the public to focus on her brother’s legacy rather than the perpetrators. “Instead of dwelling on those responsible for this crime, we ask that you remember the man Adolph was—the father who cherished time with his family, the artist who gave opportunities to those overlooked, and the businessman who sought to uplift his community.”
Johnson’s defense attorney, Luke Evans, maintained his client’s innocence during closing arguments, stating, “[Johnson] didn’t kill Adolph Thornton Jr. He didn’t conspire to kill him, and he wasn’t the man seen holding the pistol in the video footage.”
Jermarcus Johnson, Justin Johnson’s half-brother, also pleaded guilty to three counts of accessory after the fact. He is facing six to 12 years in prison.
Meanwhile, Govan, who pleaded not guilty, faces first-degree murder, attempted first-degree murder, and conspiracy charges, with his next court date set for October 9. Cornelius Smith, also charged with murder and conspiracy, is scheduled to appear in court on November 15.
The verdict brings some closure to Young Dolph’s family, friends, and the broader Memphis community, as they continue to honor the legacy of an artist who was known for both his music and his philanthropy.
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