Rapper Young Dolph's Killer Sentenced to Life in Prison

Mar. 15, 2025

Rapper Young Dolph.Photo: Paras Griffin/Getty

One of the men accused of killingYoung Dolphwill spend life in prison for the 2021 fatal shooting of the rapper.

Young Dolph, born Adolph Robert Thornton Jr., was shot and killed outside a local business called Makeda’s Butter Cookies on Airways Blvd. He was 36.

Justin Johnson.Law&crime trails/Youtube

Law&crime trails/Youtube

Johnson was found guilty on all three counts after nearly four hours of deliberation, the district attorney’s office said.

During the four-day trial, co-defendant Cornelius Smith confessed to participating in the shooting with Johnson with the expectation of receiving $40,000 each for shooting the “Preach” rapper.

According to Smith’s testimony, Hernandez Govan, who was also charged in the case, was behind the “hit.”

“Every murder’s a tragedy, and we take them all seriously,” District Attorney Steve Mulroy said. “This one generated extra public interest because Young Dolph was a prominent and beloved member of the community. We will continue to fight hard to make sure that all of those responsible for his death are brought to justice.”

Once the verdict was read, Dolph’s sister, Carlissa Thornton, read a statement to the media,Local Memphisreported.

“On Nov. 17, 2021, our lives changed forever,” Thornton said. “A son, a father, a brother, a friend, a businessman, a music artist, a philanthropist, and life partner are among just some of the titles that my brother Adolph Robert Thornton Jr. held. Titles that have now left a missing piece in the lives of so many. I want to thank the jury for their service and decision in this case to bring us one step closer to justice for our family, friends, supporters, and the community that has supported us during this time.”

Thornton also thanked those who had shared an “outpouring of love and support throughout this process.”

Rapper Young Dolph, August 2020.Paras Griffin/Getty

Paras Griffin/Getty

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“We ask that instead of focusing on those who committed this crime, you focus on that man that Adolph Robert Thornton was… We ask you to remember the man that enjoyed being a father and spending time with his family. We ask that you remember the man who enjoyed giving opportunities to those who were often overlooked and counted out,” she said.

“We will continue to heal and keep Adolph’s legacy alive,” his sibling concluded.

During closing arguments, defense attorney Luke Evans said, “[Johnson] didn’t kill Adolph Thornton Jr. He didn’t conspire to kill Adolph Thornton Jr. And he wasn’t the man holding the pistol in the Makeda video.”

Jermarcus Johnson, Johnson’s half-brother who was another suspect in Dolph’s death, pleaded guilty to three counts of accessory after the fact, reports Local Memphis. He faces six to 12 years in jail.

Govan pleaded not guilty to planning Dolph’s killing, reports theAssociated Press. Govan was charged with first-degree murder, attempted first-degree murder and conspiracy to commit first-degree murder charges, per theCommercial Appeal. Smith also faces murder and conspiracy to commit murder, per theAssociated Press. Govan’s next court date was set for Oct. 9, and Smith is scheduled to be in court on Nov. 15, per Local Memphis.

source: people.com