Young Dolph’s Killer Justin Johnson Hit with 50 More Years on Top of Life Sentence

A Shelby County judge sentenced Justin Johnson to an additional 50 years on top of his life sentence for his role in the murder of Memphis rapper Young Dolph. Johnson was convicted of first-degree murder, conspiracy to commit murder, and firearm possession as a convicted felon, leading to the life sentence in September. The additional years—35 for conspiracy and 15 for firearm possession—will be served concurrently but consecutively with his life sentence.

Young Dolph’s family delivered a powerful impact statement at the hearing, addressing Johnson directly. “To the one responsible for taking him from us just know this: You may deny your actions, but the evidence speaks clearly,” the statement read, describing Johnson’s actions as driven by “jealousy and cowardice.” They condemned his motives and the violent way in which Young Dolph, whose real name was Adolph Thornton Jr., was taken from his loved ones.

Prosecutors originally recommended a harsher sentence of 40 years for conspiracy and 20 for firearm possession, advocating for consecutive terms to lengthen Johnson’s life sentence. However, Johnson’s defense attorney, Luke Evans, argued that additional time was unnecessary since Johnson wouldn’t be eligible for parole until his 70s under the current life sentence. A hearing has been set for December 12 regarding Johnson’s appeal for a new trial, citing insufficient evidence and challenging the inclusion of graphic photographs presented to the jury.