Federal investigators have uncovered a $650,000 payment allegedly orchestrated by rapper Yo Gotti, according to newly released text messages provided by a witness in the murder case of his brother, Big Jook. The explosive messages, reportedly sent to television personality Angela Simmons, form a critical piece of evidence suggesting a high-level conspiracy behind the killings of both Big Jook and fellow Memphis rapper Young Dolph. This development signals a dramatic escalation in the sprawling federal probe into the violence that has rocked the city’s music scene.
A source close to the investigation confirmed the authenticity of the messages to our newsroom. They allegedly detail financial transactions and communications in the lead-up to Young Dolph’s assassination at a Memphis cookie shop in November 2021. The witness claims Yo Gotti, born Mario Mims, funded the hit through intermediaries after Dolph refused to sign with his CMG label.
The texts further implicate several prominent figures, stating that associates Lil Migo and Black Youngsta were directly involved in facilitating payment to the alleged triggerman. This narrative challenges previous assumptions about the attack’s financing and coordination. The witness insists the flow of money, not just the physical act, is key to understanding the conspiracy.
“Yo Gotti set his brother up because he knew everybody from Pre was coming for him,” the witness stated in a separate video statement, referencing the ongoing street feud. “He was the one that put the money out there.” This allegation paints a picture of internal betrayal within the collective known as “Pre” or “The Pack,” a group once closely allied with Young Dolph.
The released communications also place Big Jook, born Jook, at the scene of Young Dolph’s murder, contradicting earlier claims about his whereabouts. The witness alleges Big Jook was surveilling the location to confirm the hit was carried out on Yo Gotti’s orders. This direct link between the two murders provides prosecutors with a potential motive for Jook’s own killing in January 2024.
Angela Simmons, the sister of Yo Gotti’s late brother, is now entangled in the legal fallout. The witness suggests she possesses significant insider knowledge of the events. Her receipt of the revealing texts raises questions about her potential role as a witness or person of interest, placing her in a precarious position amid the dangerous feud.
The federal case appears to be building a mosaic of financial records, communication logs, and eyewitness accounts. The $650,000 payment is a tangible piece of evidence that could substantiate conspiracy and murder-for-hire charges. Investigators are methodically tracing the money’s path through intermediaries to establish a clear chain of command.
In the video testimony, the witness named multiple individuals allegedly involved in the plot, including Raven Winton, identified as the person who provided Young Dolph’s location. The testimony describes a coordinated effort involving several members of the CMG and associated circles, alleging Yo Gotti leveraged existing relationships to target Dolph.
The witness also addressed the perceived silence of Dolph’s cousin and protege, Key Glock, suggesting it is strategic rather than fearful. They claim Key Glock and the “Young Mob” camp are awaiting the right moment, aware of other players like “Big Mucci” and “Snoop Bands” who are also seeking justice. This implies the conflict remains active and unresolved.
Memphis police responded rapidly to the cookie shop shooting, a fact the witness cites as suspicious, hinting at possible prior intelligence. The upcoming trial for Cornelius Smith, one of the accused shooters, is anticipated to unveil further evidence, potentially breaking the case wide open after years of speculation.
The community remains on edge as the federal investigation progresses. The witness’s final plea was for vigilance, stating, “You have to watch the people you be around.” This sentiment echoes throughout Memphis, where the murders have left a lasting scar. The release of these texts marks a pivotal moment, applying intense pressure on all named parties as the judicial process moves forward.