The highly anticipated murder trial of hip hop artist, Young Dolph, is now officially underway, as the three men accused of his murder—Hernandez Govan, Justin Johnson, and Cornelius Smith—began their trial on Monday morning. The courtroom witnessed the release of security footage from the tragic shooting that claimed the life of the Memphis rapper, who was only 26 years old at the time. The video shows Dolph entering Makeda’s Homemade Butter Cookies when a group of armed men suddenly arrived to ambush him from behind.

 

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OPENING STATEMENTS

During opening statements, Shelby County Assistant District Attorney Paul Hagerman made a startling revelation, alleging that Big Jook, a prominent figure in the music scene, placed a $100,000 bounty on Young Dolph’s life. “Big Jook, the person I told you about before, the number two guy at CMG, he’s put out a hit, a hit, $100,000 to whoever kills Dolph,” Hagerman stated, as reported by Fox 13’s Jeremy Pierre. He further claimed that Big Jook had met with both Justin Johnson and Cornelius Smith, who appeared ready to carry out the act. Additionally, Hagerman suggested that Johnson was motivated not just by the money but by his desire to become the next major artist under Yo Gotti’s record label, CMG.

more footage of Young Dolph’s last moments before being killed revealed in court during his murder trial today, he was buying Makeda’s Homemade Cookies in Memphis

*Trigger Warning* pic.twitter.com/BqGCM4MCnW

— SOUND (@itsavibe) September 23, 2024

YOUNG DOLPH’S FAMILY STATEMENT

As the trial commenced, Young Dolph’s family issued a heartfelt statement addressing the legal proceedings. “As the trial approaches on Monday, September 23, 2024, for those accused in the tragic death of Adolph Robert Thornton Jr., known to millions as Young Dolph, his family wishes to express their hope for justice. We remain heartbroken over the loss of Adolph, and we have faith that the legal system will bring justice to all of those involved in this crime. This has been an unimaginable time for our family, but the love and support of the community has given us strength as we continue to process this situation,” they shared. The family also requested privacy as they continue to navigate this challenging period.

The trial is expected to continue in the coming days as the search for justice unfolds.

 

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