Trial Begins for Young Dolph Murder with Accusations of Rap Feud Involvement

In Memphis, Tennessee, the trial of Justin Johnson, charged in the murder of rapper Young Dolph, commenced with opening statements focusing on a purported rap feud. Cornelius Smith, who is also charged in the murder, provided crucial testimony. Prosecutors allege that Anthony Mims, known as “Big Jook,” orchestrated the hit, a claim highlighted by Deputy District Attorney Paul Hagerman.

Anthony Mims, the brother of renowned Memphis music executive Yo Gotti, was linked to the record label Collective Music Group, also known as “Cocaine Muzik Group,” according to statements by Deputy D.A. Paul Hagerman. Mims, aged 47, passed away after a shooting incident near the Perignons Restaurant and Event Center on January 13, 2024. During the incident, a second person was also injured. The shooting occurred as attendees participated in a “repass,” a gathering typically held after a funeral.

The trial brings to light the tension between Dolph, whose real name was Adolph Thornton Jr., and Collective Music Group, particularly concerning attempts to sign the rapper to the label, which he declined. Dolph was involved with the label Paper Route Empire (PRE) and had released diss tracks targeting CMG. Prosecutors allege these diss tracks led CMG affiliates to make threats against him. Hagerman claimed Big Jook later placed a $100,000 reward for Dolph’s murder. Johnson, who uses the rap name “Straight Drop,” allegedly sought “rap fame” for committing the murder.

Cornelius Smith testified that the plan was allegedly coordinated by Hernandez Govan, who would identify young rappers to present to CMG. Smith recounted encounters involving Big Jook and another accused, Jermaicus Govan, claiming they orchestrated the connection between him and Johnson for the murder carried out at Makeda’s Homemade Butter Cookies on November 17, 2021.

Smith detailed post-murder discussions involving a promised payout of $10,000 each for him and Johnson, though he noted he only received $800 before his arrest in January 2022. Additionally, Johnson’s attorney, Luke Evans, contended that Hernandez Govan exploited his client, taking Johnson to Atlanta under the pretense of music connections, then abandoning him when Johnson refused to comply with Govan’s wishes. Evans alleged Govan subsequently threatened to ruin Johnson’s career.

Legal proceedings revealed that under Tennessee law, if Johnson is convicted, he could face life imprisonment without the possibility of parole. The Memphis Police Department continues to encourage anyone with information regarding the incidents or the ongoing investigation to contact them at 901-528-2274 (CASH).

As the trial progresses, it highlights ongoing tensions and rivalries within the rap music community, punctuated by high-profile disputes and promises of financial incentives tied to criminal acts.