Overview

• Deliberations began around 5:15 p.m. Wednesday in Memphis after closing arguments, with a verdict pending.
• Prosecutors say Govan directed two shooters and presented surveillance footage and cellphone records linking calls among Cornelius Smith Jr., Justin Johnson, Govan, and Anthony “Big Jook” Mims.
• Cornelius Smith Jr. testified that Govan hired him and Johnson, relayed Dolph’s turkey giveaway plans as an opportunity, and expected a $10,000 cut.
• The defense attacked Smith’s credibility, questioned the phone evidence, argued Govan is a scapegoat, and noted Govan did not take the stand.
• Justin Johnson was convicted in 2024 and sentenced to life, and Big Jook was fatally shot in January 2024 after being named in testimony as the source of the alleged bounty.