FM News
Young Dolph’s Alleged Killers Given A Week To Find New Lawyers
Many are saying “rest in peace Young Dolph,” while also hoping that justice will be served.
On January 28th, 32-year-old Cornelius Smith and 23-year-old Justin Johnson (also known as Straight Dropp) reappeared in a Memphis courtroom updating the judge on the status of their legal representation. Both men were indicted for the November 17, 2021 murder of 36-year-old entertainer, Young Dolph.
The Shelby County District Attorney General’s Office indicted both men on counts of first-degree premeditated murder, attempted first-degree murder, convicted felon in possession of a firearm, employment of a firearm in the commission of a dangerous felony, and theft of property over $10,000.
The murder counts are for the death of Young Dolph. The attempted murder counts are due to shooting at Young Dolph’s brother, who was present at the time of the shooting. The theft count related to a stolen getaway vehicle used in the shooting.
Both individuals reported not having hired legal representation despite declining a public defender their previous court appearance. The judge allowed the alleged killers one week (February 4) to secure a hired lawyer, lest they be appointed one.
Photo Credit: Shelby County District Attorney General’s Office
What Could Be Preventing Legal Representation?
It is surprising (or may be not) that both have not acquired paid legal representation, but more so with Mr. Straight Drop, himself. After being on the run for almost two months, Straight Dropp was apprehended near Indianapolis, Indiana on January 11, 2022. While on the run, Straight Dropp took the time to release two music videos via YouTube and post on his Instagram account pleading his innocence.
Yes, instead of tending to his legal obligations pending the murder of Young Dolph, Mr. Dropp sought clout. In both videos, he is draped in designer and jewelry. It seems he can surely afford an attorney. With the egregious charges Straight Dropp is facing, he is looking at a 40 – 60k legal fee for competent legal representation. If the lawyer ever becomes aware Mr. Dropp named one of his music video releases, “Stepped On”, while on the run, there may be cause for a price increase.
Interestedly, Young Gotti and Blac Youngsta’s longtime lawyer, Arthur Horne initially took both suspects’ cases, but ultimately dropped it. Never being specific as to why he dropped the case, Horne stated:
“After reading a few recent articles, watching a half dozen blogs and skimming through the comments section I’ve learned a sobering fact: Misinformation spreads and sells far faster than the truth. There’s also an old quote that goes: ‘A lie will make it halfway around the world before the truth puts it’s shoes on.”
Run It Up
Is money the concern? Did their plan of paying the legal fees fall apart with Horne withdrawing from the case? Whatever the reason may be… Straight Dropp is going to need some straight help. So, run it up on his videos below because he’s going to need it.
