AceShowbiz - A jury found Justin Johnson, 26, guilty of first-degree murder, conspiracy to commit murder, and being a felon in possession of a firearm in connection with the death of Young Dolph (Adolph Thornton Jr.). The verdict came after four hours of deliberation and a four-day trial.

Shelby County Judge Jennifer Mitchell sentenced Johnson to life in prison for the murder charge and set a November date for sentencing on the additional charges. Johnson and fellow suspect Cornelius Smith ambushed Young Dolph outside a cookie shop in Memphis on November 17, 2021. They allegedly fired 22 shots, killing the rapper.

Smith testified as a prosecution witness, implicating himself and Johnson in the murder. He claimed that a $100,000 bounty had been placed on Dolph's head by Anthony "Big Jook" Mims, the brother of Yo Gotti, a rival rapper. Smith stated that he and Johnson were each supposed to receive $40,000 for carrying out the killing.

Johnson's defense attorney argued that the jury should not trust Smith's testimony and claimed that Johnson was not involved in the murder. However, prosecutors presented surveillance videos, cell phone records and Jemarcus Johnson's (Justin's half-brother) testimony to support their case.

Young Dolph was a rising star in the hip-hop community, with seven studio albums, four Billboard Hot 100 hits, and a posthumous LP released in 2022. His murder generated public interest and outrage, leading to calls for justice.

Shelby County District Attorney Steve Mulroy expressed relief at the verdict, stating that "we will continue to fight hard to make sure that all of those responsible for his death are brought to justice."

Young Dolph's fiancee Mia Jaye expressed gratitude for the conviction, saying it "brings relief and restores my confidence in the justice system."

The IdaMae Family Foundation, named after Dolph's grandmother and established to support the community, will continue its charitable work in his memory.