The Tennessee Court of Criminal Appeals has upheld the convictions of Justin Johnson (aka Straight Drop) for his involvement in the 2021 killing of Memphis rapper Young Dolph (Adolph Thornton Jr.). Johnson, who was found guilty of first-degree premeditated murder, conspiracy to commit first-degree murder, and firearm possession by a felon, will continue serving a life sentence plus an additional 35 years.

Johnson's appeal questioned whether the evidence was sufficient for a conviction; however, the appeals court cited video footage, more than enough cell phone data, surveillance of Johnson's activities, and various statements from an accomplice, Cornelius Smith, as supporting the jury's decision. Johnson also objected to the use of certain photographs of Young Dolph’s body during the trial. On that front, the court ultimately ruled that the photos' inclusion did not sway the jury.

Another appeal issue involved Johnson being seated behind his attorneys rather than at the defense table, a decision that was apparently made over security concerns due to the case’s context. The appeals court, however, supported the protocol. Johnson also challenged remarks made by the prosecutor during closing arguments about a witness who didn't testify. The appellate panel noted that Johnson’s legal team didn't object to any of this in court in the first place, and said they found the evidence compelling enough to uphold the conviction.

The appeals opinion concluded, "the evidence of defendant’s guilt was overwhelming, and the prosecutor’s comments were brief."

Co-defendants in the case have seen differing outcomes. Hernandez Govan, initially accused of orchestrating the homicide, was acquitted of all charges in August 2025. Jermarcus Johnson, whose involvement was categorized separately, pleaded guilty to accessory charges in late 2023.