Second Trial in Murder of Rapper Young Dolph Begins in Memphis

Trial Begins for Man Charged in the Murder of Rapper Young Dolph

The trial of a man accused of orchestrating the daytime ambush killing of rapper Young Dolph has begun in Memphis, Tennessee. The incident took place at a local bakery in November 2021 and has since sent shockwaves through the music industry and the city itself. Hernandez Govan, 45, is facing serious charges including first-degree murder, conspiracy to commit first-degree murder, and attempted murder. While he is not directly accused of pulling the trigger, prosecutors argue that he was the mastermind behind the attack, directing two individuals who carried out the shooting.

Young Dolph, whose real name was Adolph Thornton Jr., was a prominent figure in the Memphis music scene. As a rapper, independent label owner, and producer, he was known for his contributions to hip-hop and his charitable efforts in the community. At the time of his death, he was in Memphis to distribute Thanksgiving turkeys to families, a gesture that highlighted his commitment to giving back. His visit to a favorite cookie shop turned into a tragic moment when he was ambushed, an event that left many stunned and grieving.

Prosecutors have suggested that the murder was part of a larger scheme by Anthony “Big Jook” Mims, who sought revenge against Young Dolph for diss tracks targeting him and his brother Yo Gotti's record label. According to testimony, Big Jook reportedly placed a $100,000 bounty on Young Dolph and smaller rewards for artists associated with his label, Paper Route Empire. Unfortunately, Big Jook was later shot and killed outside a restaurant earlier this year.

During the trial, Cornelius Smith Jr., one of the two shooters involved in the attack, testified against Govan. Smith admitted to being one of the individuals who participated in the ambush. He previously played a key role in the conviction of Justin Johnson, who was found guilty of first-degree murder in 2024. Smith’s testimony revealed that he was initially unaware of any plans related to Paper Route Empire but claims that Govan informed him about the "hits" and offered him a $10,000 cut. Smith also stated that Govan provided information about Young Dolph’s presence in Memphis during a volunteer event, which he described as their opportunity to act.

Govan’s defense attorney, Manny Arora, attempted to undermine Smith’s credibility by suggesting that he was an unreliable witness seeking a lighter sentence. Arora pointed to previous statements where Smith mentioned an encounter with Big Jook, implying that Big Jook might have been the one who hired him. Additionally, Smith revealed that he received between $38,000 and $50,000 in cash after his arrest, though he could not confirm who provided the money. Smith also mentioned hearing rumors that Govan might be working with the FBI, but he claimed that he believed Govan was innocent until proven guilty.

Smith faces separate charges of murder and conspiracy to commit murder, but he has pleaded not guilty and does not yet have a trial date. Meanwhile, Justin Johnson, who was identified as the second shooter, was sentenced to life in prison with the possibility of parole in September 2024. He also received additional sentences for conspiracy to commit murder and being a felon in possession of a gun.

Young Dolph had a successful career, starting with numerous mixtapes before releasing his debut studio album, “King of Memphis,” in 2016. He collaborated with various artists, including Key Glock, Megan Thee Stallion, T.I., Gucci Mane, and 2 Chainz. His work reached significant success, with three albums making it into the top 10 on the Billboard 200 chart. His 2020 album, “Rich Slave,” peaked at No. 4.

In a 2024 interview with The Associated Press, Young Dolph’s sister, Carlisa Brown, described her brother’s death as a “very senseless murder” and expressed the family’s desire for justice for all those involved. The tragedy continues to resonate with fans and the broader community, highlighting the ongoing impact of violence in the music industry.