The highly anticipated verdict in the Young Dolph murder trial is expected soon, as the jury deliberates the fate of Justin “Straight Drop” Johnson. The four-day trial has been marked by shocking testimony from co-defendants turning on each other.
Cornelius Smith, who pled guilty earlier in the week, made the bombshell claim that Yo Gotti’s late brother, Anthony “Big Jook” Mims, had put out a $100,000 hit on Young Dolph. Smith testified that he and Johnson were responsible for carrying out the murder, following Dolph to a Memphis cookie shop on November 17, 2021 and opening fire, hitting him 22 times.
Prosecutor Paul Hagerman argued that the state has presented overwhelming evidence to convict Johnson, including video footage of the suspects, cell phone records, and Smith’s testimony[2][4]. He pointed to a FaceTime call between Johnson and Big Jook shortly after the killing, in which Smith claimed Johnson spelled out “Dolph”.
In contrast, Johnson’s defense attorney Luke Evans argued the videos only prove someone in similar clothing shot Dolph, and that Smith is lying to save himself. Evans noted Johnson’s DNA was not found in the getaway car, and there’s no proof he received any money.
The jury’s decision will come after a tumultuous 18 months since Dolph’s death. His estate released his first posthumous album, “Paper Route Frank,” in 2022, featuring collaborations with artists like Gucci Mane, 2 Chainz and Key Glock.
As the city of Memphis awaits the verdict, the trial has shed light on the alleged motives behind the senseless murder of a beloved rapper and community figure. The outcome will determine if justice is served for Young Dolph.
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