What's next for the cases of other suspects charged with Young Dolph's murder?

MEMPHIS, Tenn. (WMC) – One conviction has already been handed down, but more convictions could be coming in connection with the 2021 murder of Memphis rapper Young Dolph.

Justin Johnson, one of the perpetrators involved in the rapper's death, was convicted Thursday by a Davidson County jury at 201 Poplar.

Several other people are charged as part of the murder investigation.

Some even testified during Johnson's trial, but a man once described as the “mastermind” behind the murder was absent.

Justin Johnson, one of the men NOW convicted of murdering Memphis rapper Young Dolph, will serve a life sentence for murder.

Dolph's family and fans have been waiting for a verdict.

Johnson's lawyer maintains his innocence and says they will appeal the verdict.

But what about the other defendants charged in connection with the murder?

Cornelius Smith, the other accused in the case, testified at Johnson's trial.

“You're not a professional killer or something?” Assistant District Attorney Paul Hagerman asked during the trial.

“No, I am none of that,” said Cornelius Smith.

He faces murder charges in this case.

His testimony was crucial to the prosecution this week. He testified that another defendant, Hernandez Govan, told him about a $100,000 hit on Young Dolph by Anthony “Big Jook” Mims, the late brother of Memphis rapper Yo Gotti.

Govan, the so-called “mastermind” behind the murder, did not testify, although Johnson's lawyer Evans said he was on the witness list.

“When he wasn't called to testify, I thought it was significant,” said Justin Johnson's attorney, Luke Evans. “It created a significant gap in her case.”

Prosecutors will not answer if a plea agreement is reached with Govan, who also faces first-degree murder, conspiracy and attempted murder charges.

“We have to go one at a time, Mr. Johnson first,” Hagerman said. “This matter ends today. And we come to the other defendants.”

Shelby County District Attorney Steve Mulroy told Action News 5 this week that Smith and Govan's cases will be decided by trial or plea bargain.

Johnson's brother, Jermarcus, pleaded guilty last June to accessory after the fact for helping Smith and Johnson communicate while on the run.

Johnson testified against his half-brother this week.

Jermarcus Johnson and Hernandez Govan will be back in court on October 9th.

Justin Johnson will be sentenced on November 1st.

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