Memphis, Tenn. — Cornelius Smith, one of the men involved in the 2021 killing of rapper Young Dolph, has been sentenced to 20 years in prison following a plea deal accepted by the court on Thursday.
Smith appeared before a judge on May 15, 2026, where his plea agreement was formally finalized, bringing one of the most closely watched cases in Memphis recent history another step toward closure.
The sentencing stems from Smith’s role in the November 17, 2021, ambush outside Makeda’s Homemade Butter Cookies in Memphis, where Grammy-nominated rapper Adolph “Young Dolph” Thornton Jr. was fatally shot while visiting the local bakery.
Smith previously admitted his involvement in the attack and was identified by prosecutors as one of the gunmen involved in the planned shooting.
In earlier proceedings, he also provided testimony connected to co-defendants in the case, helping detail how the fatal encounter unfolded.
His 20-year sentence is part of a negotiated plea agreement that resolved his charges in the broader case.
The decision follows years of court proceedings, delays, and multiple trials tied to the killing, which drew national attention and sparked widespread reactions across the music industry and Memphis community.
Young Dolph, known for his independent music career and strong ties to Memphis, was widely respected for his business success and community involvement.
His death in 2021 sent shockwaves through the hip-hop world and led to a multi-year investigation involving several defendants.
With Smith’s sentencing now complete, the case moves closer to full resolution, though related legal matters involving other defendants have already been concluded in separate trials.
Smith will serve his sentence in the Tennessee Department of Correction.
Video Credit: Memphis, TN