Prosecutors have set a Nov. 22 deadline for Hernandez Govan, the alleged mastermind behind the 2021 murder of Young Dolph, to reach a plea deal in the case. Govan’s trial is scheduled for a hearing on Wednesday, March 10, 2025 (October 9) in Memphis.
Govan did not appear in court to charge Jan Dorf’s killer, Justin Johnson, who was convicted of murder in September. Prosecutors never called Govan as a witness in Johnson’s trial.
Johnson’s attorneys said Govan accepted the proposed agreement during the Jan Dorff murder investigation. A proposed agreement would allow Govan to reveal information to authorities without fear that the information would be used against him.
Johnson’s co-conspirator, Cornelius Smith, testified at the September trial. Smith said he and Johnson killed young Dolph to collect the late rapper’s $100,000 reward.
Yogotti’s brother Big Jock puts a bounty on Little Dolph’s head. Govan allegedly took Johnson and Smith to Grand Chalk to plan the murder.
“We knew they hit Dolph in the head or something,” Smith testified. “Big Jock hit Dolph in the head or something. [Govan] Already told me this.
Johnson was found guilty of first-degree murder, conspiracy to commit first-degree murder and possession of a handgun. He was sentenced to life in prison.
“[The] The verdict was a relief and restored my faith in the justice system. “On behalf of my children, my family, and myself, I want to thank law enforcement, prosecutors, and all involved for their hard work in presenting the facts that led to this conviction… This is just the beginning of our journey toward full justice.”
Govan and Smith face first-degree murder charges. Smith’s next court appearance is scheduled for Nov. 15.
