Final Suspect to Plead Guilty in Young Dolph Murder

Cornelius Smith, 36, to admit role in 2021 shooting of Memphis rapper

Published on Feb. 15, 2026

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More than four years after the shocking murder of Memphis rapper Young Dolph, the final legal chapter appears to be closing. Cornelius Smith, 36, has agreed to a plea deal in connection with the November 17, 2021, shooting at Makeda's Homemade Butter Cookies that claimed the artist's life.

Why it matters

Young Dolph's death sent shockwaves through the Memphis community and the wider hip-hop world, sparking tributes and demands for justice. This plea deal brings closure to a high-profile case that has been open for over four years, highlighting the complexities of prosecuting crimes involving gang affiliations and alleged hitmen.

The details

Smith confessed to his involvement in the shooting, testifying that he and Justin Johnson carried out a hit ordered by Anthony 'Big Jook' Mims, the late brother of rapper Yo Gotti. He initially expected a payment of $40,000 for his role. The plea hearing, originally scheduled for February 12, has been reset to March 30 to finalize the details of the agreement, including Smith's incarceration within the Tennessee Department of Corrections.

  • The shooting occurred on November 17, 2021.
  • Justin Johnson was convicted and sentenced to life in prison in 2024.
  • Hernandez Govan was acquitted of all charges in August 2025.
  • Cornelius Smith's plea hearing is scheduled for March 30, 2026.

The players

Cornelius Smith

A 36-year-old man who has agreed to a plea deal in connection with the murder of Young Dolph.

Justin Johnson

One of the shooters convicted and sentenced to life in prison for the murder of Young Dolph.

Anthony 'Big Jook' Mims

The late brother of rapper Yo Gotti, who allegedly ordered the hit on Young Dolph.

Young Dolph

A prominent Memphis rapper whose real name was Adolph Thornton Jr.

Hernandez Govan

A man accused of orchestrating the hit on Young Dolph who was acquitted of all charges.

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What’s next

The judge in the case will decide on March 30 whether to accept Cornelius Smith's plea deal and determine his sentence within the Tennessee Department of Corrections.

The takeaway

This case highlights the complexities of prosecuting high-profile crimes involving gang affiliations and alleged hitmen, as well as the critical role witness cooperation plays in achieving justice. The differing outcomes for the suspects demonstrate the challenges of securing convictions, even with substantial evidence and testimony.