Corey Walker sentenced to 29 years for role in Pop Smoke’s death

Corey Walker, the final individual convicted in the 2020 killing of rapper Pop Smoke, expressed deep remorse during his sentencing in Los Angeles on Friday.

Walker, 24, received a 29-year sentence after accepting a plea deal on February 5. He pleaded guilty to voluntary manslaughter and two counts of robbery in connection with the rapper’s death.

In court, Walker issued a heartfelt apology to Pop Smoke’s family, despite their absence. He acknowledged that no apology could make up for taking someone’s life. “Even though the Jackson family isn’t here in court today, I would like to sincerely apologize for my unforgivable actions,” Walker said, according to a Rolling Stone report. 

Walker also expressed regret for the pain his actions caused his own family and community. “I also want to apologize to my family for the pain and embarrassment that they have endured over the last five years,” he added.

Initially charged with murder and facing a life sentence without the possibility of parole, Walker avoided a harsher penalty through the plea deal. He thanked his defense team for helping him achieve this outcome. “Today I take responsibility for my dreadful partake in these crimes,” Walker said. “As I begin my road to rehabilitation, I assure you that I will steer clear of negative behavior.”

Pop Smoke, born Bashar Barakah Jackson, was killed during a home invasion in February 2020 while staying at a rented house in the Hollywood Hills. The assailants, led by Walker, broke in after 20-year-old Pop Smoke unknowingly revealed the address on Instagram. They shot him multiple times and stole valuables, including a Rolex watch.

Walker was the only adult charged in the crime, while three others involved were juveniles who reached separate plea deals.