A Tennessee man, Jermarcus Johnson, has been sentenced to six years' probation for his involvement in the aftermath of the murder of rapper Young Dolph at a Memphis bakery. Johnson pleaded guilty to three counts of serving as an accessory after the shooting, where he assisted the two hired killers, Cornelius Smith Jr. and Justin Johnson, in communicating while they were on the run.
Justin Johnson, Jermarcus' half-brother, was convicted of first-degree murder and other charges and sentenced to life in prison plus 35 years. Smith, who testified at Justin Johnson's trial, has been charged with first-degree murder for his role in the shooting.
Jermarcus Johnson's sentence includes participation in a six-year diversionary program involving job training, drug testing, community service, and a prohibition on possessing firearms. If he successfully completes the program, his record could be cleared.
During the trial, it was revealed that the motive behind Young Dolph's murder stemmed from a dispute with a rival record label, Cocaine Muzik Group, founded by Yo Gotti. The shooters, Smith and Justin Johnson, targeted Young Dolph during a turkey giveaway event in Memphis, where he was distributing turkeys to families.
Despite his involvement in aiding the killers, prosecutors emphasized that Jermarcus Johnson had no direct role in the murder itself and was manipulated by his brother. Johnson's defense lawyer also stated that he was placed in a difficult situation.
Following Young Dolph's tragic death, the community rallied to honor his memory, with tributes including murals around the city, a street named after him, and a memorial at the bakery where he was killed. Young Dolph, known for his philanthropy and music career, had several successful albums and collaborations with prominent artists in the industry.
The case has brought attention to the complexities of the music industry and the consequences of feuds and rivalries within the hip-hop community.
