Young Dolph’s killer sentenced to life, marking a crucial victory in the pursuit of justice.( Photo/Lindaikejiblog)
MEMPHIS, TN – Justin Johnson, one of the men involved in the fatal 2021 shooting of American rapper Young Dolph, was sentenced to life in prison after being found guilty of multiple charges, including first-degree murder.
The verdict, reached on the trial of the killer of Young Dolph no Thursday, September 26, came after a four-day trial and nearly four hours of jury deliberation.
Young Dolph, born Adolph Robert Thornton Jr., was tragically gunned down at the age of 36 outside Makeda’s Butter Cookies, a popular bakery in his hometown of Memphis, on November 17, 2021.
His death sent shockwaves through the music industry and the local community.
Johnson was convicted of first-degree murder, conspiracy to commit first-degree murder, and possession of a firearm by a convicted felon, according to the Shelby County District Attorney’s Office.
He received a life sentence for his role in the rapper’s killing.During the trial, co-defendant Cornelius Smith testified that both he and Johnson were offered $40,000 each to carry out the murder.
Smith further implicated Hernandez Govan as the brain behind the plot, alleging that Govan acted on instructions from Anthony “Big Jook” Mims, the brother of Memphis rapper Yo Gotti.
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Mims, who allegedly agreed to pay Govan $10,000 for the hit, was himself killed in January 2023 in an unrelated shooting in Memphis. No arrests have been made in connection with his death.
Family of Young Dolph expressed satisfaction at the verdict
The family of Adolph Robert Thornton Jr., known to many as rapper Young Dolph, expressed gratitude following a significant verdict in his murder case, marking a pivotal moment in their pursuit of justice.
Thornton’s sister, speaking on behalf of the family, thanked the jury for their service, stating that the decision brings them “one step closer to justice” for her brother, a beloved figure who wore many hats in his community.
“A son, a father, a brother, a friend, a businessman, a music artist, and a philanthropist” were just some of the titles he held, she said.
His loss has left an irreplaceable void in the lives of many. Rather than focusing on those responsible for the crime, the family urged the public to remember the man Thornton was.
They highlighted his devotion to his family, particularly his role as a father, and his generosity toward others.
“He enjoyed giving opportunities to those who were often overlooked and counted out,” his sister added.
The statement concludes with a call to honor Thornton’s life by focusing on the positive impact he made on his family, friends, and the community that continues to mourn his passing.
The News Summaries:
- Justin Johnson has been Convicted in Memphis Rapper Young Dolph’s Murder
- Jury convicts Johnson after four-day trial in Young Dolph case.
- Co-defendant testifies, revealing payment for Young Dolph murder plot.
