Final Young Dolph Killer Gets 20 Years in Prison in Plea Deal

Cornelius Smith Jr. Was sentenced to 20 years in prison on May 15, 2026, after pleading guilty to second-degree murder in connection with the 2021 death of Memphis rapper Young Dolph.

The plea deal, reached with Memphis prosecutors, brings the legal proceedings to a close for all four individuals who were charged in the case. Smith had previously faced more severe charges, including first-degree murder, attempted first-degree murder, employment of a firearm during the commission of a dangerous felony, and being a convicted felon in possession of a firearm. Those charges were dropped as part of the agreement.

The sentencing follows a series of legal developments in which Smith played a central role. Smith had previously admitted on the witness stand that he and co-defendant Justin Johnson shot Young Dolph during a daytime ambush at a bakery in Memphis in 2021.

Smith served as the primary witness during the trial of Justin Johnson. Based on the evidence and testimony, Johnson was convicted and sentenced to life in prison.

The case also involved other individuals alleged to have played roles in the shooting. Hernandez Govan, described as the alleged mastermind of the attack, stood trial in August 2025. Govan was acquitted of conspiracy to commit first-degree murder and first-degree murder.

Jemarcus Johnson, the brother of Justin Johnson, pleaded guilty to three counts of accessory after the fact. He was sentenced to community service and six years of diversion.

District Attorney General Steve Mulroy issued a statement regarding the resolution of the case on May 15, 2026.

Young Dolph was a beloved member of this community, his death a tragedy, his murder an outrage. We’re glad to finally have this last part of the case resolved.

District Attorney General Steve Mulroy