The trial for the tragic murder of Memphis rapper Young Dolph is now underway, with the three accused men—Hernandez Govan, Justin Johnson, and Cornelius Smith—facing charges related to the rapper’s untimely death. The beloved artist, whose real name was Adolph Robert Thornton Jr., was gunned down at the age of 36, outside Makeda’s Homemade Butter Cookies, a local Memphis bakery he frequently visited.

During the opening statements on Monday, the prosecution wasted no time in presenting damning evidence to the court. Shelby County Assistant District Attorney Paul Hagerman revealed security footage showing the moments leading up to Dolph’s death. In the footage, Dolph is seen entering the bakery before being ambushed by gunmen. The video footage was a grim reminder of the rapper’s final moments, intensifying emotions in the courtroom.

Prosecutor Hagerman also made serious allegations regarding the motive behind the killing. He claimed that Big Jook, a high-ranking figure within the Collective Music Group (CMG), the label associated with fellow Memphis rapper Yo Gotti, had placed a $100,000 bounty on Young Dolph’s life. “Big Jook, the number two guy at CMG, put out a hit of $100,000 on Dolph,” Hagerman stated, further alleging that the money, along with promises of a music career, was a motivating factor for Justin Johnson’s involvement. Johnson allegedly wanted to become the next big artist signed to CMG, adding a dark layer to the narrative of Dolph’s assassination.

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As the trial unfolds, the family of Young Dolph remains hopeful for justice. In a heartfelt statement released ahead of the trial, Dolph’s family expressed their ongoing grief, yet faith in the legal system. “As the trial approaches…for those accused in the tragic death of Adolph Robert Thornton Jr., known to millions as Young Dolph, his family wishes to express their hope for justice. We remain heartbroken over the loss of Adolph, and we have faith that the legal system will bring justice to all of those involved in this crime,” the family said. They also thanked the community for their support while requesting privacy as they navigate the emotional rollercoaster of the trial.

The trial is expected to last for several weeks as both sides present their arguments and witnesses, with the prosecution aiming to prove the connection between the accused and the orchestrated hit. For now, fans and the Memphis community alike are watching closely, hoping that the trial will bring closure and justice for a rapper who was not only a musical talent but a beloved figure in his hometown.