Memphis, August 15, 2025
News Summary
Hernandez Govan is scheduled to stand trial for his alleged orchestration of the murder of Memphis rapper Young Dolph. With charges including first-degree murder, Govan is connected to a wider conspiracy involving significant figures in the music scene. The trial, set for August 2025, has attracted considerable media attention due to the violent nature of the case and its implications within the local community.
MemphisโHernandez Govan is set to stand trial on August 18, 2025, for his alleged role in the murder of Memphis rapper Young Dolph, whose real name was Adolph Thornton Jr. Young Dolph was shot and killed on November 17, 2021, while at Makedaโs Homemade Cookies in Memphis. The case has attracted significant media attention due to the nature of the allegations and the prominent figures involved.
Prosecutors argue that Govan orchestrated the murder while he was the founder of Paper Route Empire (PRE), the label that represented Young Dolph. Govan has been charged with first-degree murder, attempted first-degree murder, and conspiracy to commit first-degree murder. He reportedly recruited Cornelius Smith and Justin Johnson, who are accused of carrying out the shooting, promising each of them $50,000 for their efforts, while Govan was to receive $10,000 for planning the crime.
During earlier proceedings, Smith confessed to his participation in the murder, and Johnson has already been convicted for his role in the incident. The court heard allegations during Johnson’s trial that a contract had been placed on Young Dolph’s life, supposedly orchestrated by Big Jook, the brother of renowned rapper Yo Gotti. Testimony indicated that Govan, Smith, and Big Jook met prior to the shooting to discuss plans.
Govan was arrested in November 2022, nearly one year following the murder, but has been out on bond since May 2023. His legal troubles include previous arrests for driving with a suspended license as well as unresolved stalking charges. Judge Jennifer Mitchell has expressed discontent over Govan’s actions while free on bond, noting that he violated conditions of his house arrest by taking unsanctioned trips.
Adding depth to the case, Govan’s daughter, known as Lotta Cash Desoto, was tragically killed in Houston in September 2022, just two months before his arrest. Despite having the option to testify during Johnson’s trial, Govan did not take the stand. He has entered into a Proffer agreement which allows him to share information with investigators without that information being used against him at trial.
As the trial approaches, it remains a focal point of discussion within the Memphis community, with significant public interest due to both the local celebrity of Young Dolph and the alleged conspiracy surrounding his murder. Govan faces the possibility of life imprisonment if found guilty of first-degree murder.
Frequently Asked Questions
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When is Hernandez Govan’s trial scheduled?
Hernandez Govan’s trial is scheduled to begin on August 18, 2025.
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What charges is Hernandez Govan facing?
He is charged with first-degree murder, attempted first-degree murder, and conspiracy to commit first-degree murder.
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Who was Young Dolph?
Young Dolph, born Adolph Thornton Jr., was a Memphis rapper who was killed on November 17, 2021.
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What is the background of the case?
Prosecutors allege Govan orchestrated Young Dolph’s murder by hiring Cornelius Smith and Justin Johnson, who have both been involved in the case in various capacities.
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What were the alleged motivations behind the murder?
During trials, it was suggested that there was a $100,000 hit placed on Young Dolph’s life by Big Jook, the brother of Yo Gotti, as part of ongoing conflicts within the music scene.
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Additional Resources
- Fox 13 Memphis: Hernandez Govan Goes on Trial for Young Dolph’s Murder
- Andscape: Young Dolph Murder Trial Verdict
- Action News 5: Local Cookie Shop Honors Young Dolph
- Google Search: Young Dolph
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Young Dolph
Author: STAFF HERE MEMPHIS WRITER
The MEMPHIS STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREMemphis.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Memphis, Shelby County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the areaโwith deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as Beale Street Music Festival, Elvis Week, and Memphis in May International Festival. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Greater Memphis Chamber and the Memphis Convention & Visitors Bureau, plus leading businesses in logistics, healthcare, and music that power the local economy such as FedEx, St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, and AutoZone. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREBristol.com, HEREChattanooga.com, HEREKnoxville.com, and HERENashville.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Tennessee's dynamic landscape.
