Young Dolph Murder Case: Justin Johnson Sentenced to Life in Prison

The case against Johnson included testimony from co-defendant Cornelius Smith, who claimed that the murder was orchestrated as part of a hit put out by Anthony “Big Jook” Mims, the brother of rapper Yo Gotti. Smith stated that he and Johnson were looking for someone to kill when they encountered Young Dolph and opened fire, resulting in Dolph being shot 22 times. Prosecutors presented substantial circumstantial evidence, including surveillance footage and cell phone records, which they argued corroborated Smith’s testimony. The trial highlighted the ongoing tensions in the Memphis rap scene and the violent consequences of rivalries in the music industry, with Young Dolph’s legacy being honored by his family and supporters in the aftermath of his death.