Pop Smoke Murder Suspect Sentenced to 29 Years Behind Bars
A suspect in the murder case of rising rapper Pop Smoke has been sentenced to nearly three decades in prison for his role in the 2020 tragedy.
On Friday (Feb. 21), 29-year-old Corey Walker issued an apology to the late Brooklyn rapper’s family as he was sentenced to 29 years behind bars, the Los Angeles County District Attorney’s Office reported.
“Even though the Jackson family isn’t here in court today, I would like to sincerely apologize for my unforgivable actions, although there’s no apology that amounts to the taking of someone’s life,” Walker said, per Rolling Stone.
“I would also like to take this opportunity to apologize to my family for the pain and embarrassment that they have endured over the last five years, as well as an apology to my community.”
Walker was originally facing life without parole before pleading guilty to one count of voluntary manslaughter and two counts of robbery, with firearm and gang enhancements, in early February. A murder charge was dropped as part of the plea deal.
Three other individuals involved were just 15, 16, and 17 at the time of the crime. According to Entertainment Weekly, they were convicted in juvenile court and accepted separate plea deals.
In court, Walker said, “Today I take responsibility for my dreadful partake in these crimes, and as I begin my road to rehabilitation,” assuring attendees, “I will steer clear from negative behavior.”
The “Dior” hitmaker, born Bashar Barakah Jackson, was tragically shot and killed in February 2020 during a home invasion at a Hollywood Hills rental. According to the Los Angeles Times, the rapper had unknowingly shared his location and valuables on Instagram Stories, making him an easy target.
The intruders ambushed him while he was in the shower, demanding cash and high-end jewelry. Among the stolen items was his Rolex watch, which they later sold for just $2,000. The rapper was rushed to the hospital but didn’t survive. He was only 20 years old.
