The man accused of masterminding the murder of beloved rapper Young Dolph was chastised by a judge who is reviewing his request to have the conditions of his house arrest relaxed.
Hernandez Govan’s involvement in Young Dolph’s November 2021 murder as the organizer of the hit, as alleged by prosecutors, has led to charges of first-degree murder, attempted first-degree murder, and conspiracy to commit first-degree murder.
Govan was arrested in November 2022, after which he was granted a $90,000 bond and placed under house arrest.
Govan’s attorney filed a motion to review his bond conditions earlier this week. According to the documents, Govan seeks employment to provide for his wife and family.
In a tense courtroom moment, Shelby County Judge Jennifer Mitchell sternly warned Hernandez Govan for his perceived carelessness, lax attitude, and disregard for court mandates.
During the court session, Judge Mitchell did not mince words, expressing dissatisfaction with Govan’s behavior while out on bond.
“Mr. Govan, I don’t have to tell you how serious these charges are,” the judge began, setting the tone for the reprimand that followed. The judge criticized Govan for “playing fast and loose with the court” and its stipulations, indicating a blatant disrespect for the judicial process.
Judge Mitchell’s irritation was mainly sparked by Govan’s decision to engage in media interviews, actions deemed reckless and indicative of a lack of understanding of the situation’s gravity.
“You’re doing interviews… and the court doesn’t like the fact that you feel free enough to do interviews,” the judge stated, emphasizing the potential risks associated with Govan’s public appearances.
The judge made it abundantly clear that until further notice, Govan was to refrain from any form of media interaction.
“You are to not have any interviews with anybody for any reason,” Judge Mitchell mandated, reinforcing the directive sternly.
Govan’s latest request seemed moot in light of his recent actions. He previously asked to have his house arrest conditions lightened, but the previous judge featured Govan would be killed due to his alleged role in Young Dolph’s murder, which many believe was sparked by his feud with fellow Memphis rapper Yo Gotti.
Govan’s daughter, Lotta Cash Desto, was killed, as was Blac Youngsta’s brother. A suspect in that case was caught earlier this week, but the suspect who killed Yo Gotti’s brother, Big Jook, is still on the loose.
As the legal proceedings trudge forward, with a review of Govan’s bond conditions scheduled for March 1, the judge’s parting words served as a stark reminder of the severity of the situation.
“Please don’t give me any reason to revoke this bond,” the judge concluded, leaving no room for ambiguity regarding the expectations set forth.