The case surrounding Young Dolph’s 2021 murder took an unexpected turn this week after Shundale Barnett was mistakenly arrested due to an administrative error. Barnett, who is the cousin of convicted murderer Justin Johnson, was taken into custody despite the Shelby County District Attorney’s office previously deciding not to pursue charges against him. Johnson, found guilty last year, is currently serving a life sentence for Dolph’s killing.
On Tuesday, the DA’s office issued a statement clarifying the confusion, explaining that U.S. Marshals had initially considered a warrant for Barnett’s arrest, but prosecutors later determined he was not involved in the case. However, due to a clerical miscommunication, the warrant remained active in the system, ultimately leading to his wrongful arrest.
“During the investigation of Justin Johnson, Shundale Barnett was found with [Justin] Johnson at the time of his arrest in Indiana,” the statement explained. “Based on this and other facts, a task force officer with the U.S. Marshals determined there was probable cause to charge Barnett with Accessory After the Fact, and an arrest warrant was issued as part of standard procedure.”
It continued, “As the investigation progressed, the DA’s Office determined that Barnett was not involved in the case and chose not to pursue charges, indicating the charge would be withdrawn. However, a delay in recalling the warrant left it active in the system. This clerical issue has now been resolved, and the charges against Barnett have been officially dismissed.”
Meanwhile, Johnson is seeking a new trial, a move that drew a strong reaction from Dolph’s fiancée, Mia Jaye. Last fall, she took to Instagram to express her frustration, writing:, “It’s infuriating to see the person who took our loved one’s life now seeking a new trial over ‘insufficient evidence.’ Their arrogance feels like a cruel joke to me and my loved ones. We won’t let this deter us; we will keep fighting for justice and honor the memory of Adolph [heart emoji].”
The case remains ongoing as another suspect, Hernandez Govan, is scheduled to stand trial this summer.