Pop Smoke’s Killer Sentenced to 29 Years in Prison, Apologizes to Family
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Corey Walker, the individual responsible for the murder of rapper Pop Smoke in 2020, has been handed a 29-year prison sentence by the Los Angeles County District Attorney’s Office. The sentencing took place on Friday, February 21 in a Los Angeles County court. In a poignant moment during the hearing, Walker expressed his regret and extended an apology to the family of the late rapper for his role in the tragic incident that also involved four others.
Speaking in court, Walker stated, “There’s no apology that amounts to the taking of someone’s life.” Despite the absence of Pop Smoke’s family at the hearing, Walker conveyed his sincerest apologies for his actions. He also took the opportunity to apologise to his own family for the pain and embarrassment they have endured over the past five years, as well as to his community. Additionally, Walker expressed gratitude towards his defense team for their efforts in securing a less severe sentence, as he was initially facing a life sentence without parole before entering a guilty plea.
According to reports, Walker pleaded guilty to one count of voluntary manslaughter and two counts of robbery, along with firearm and gang enhancements earlier in February. As part of the plea deal, a murder charge against Walker was dropped. During his statement in court, Walker assumed responsibility for his involvement in the crimes and pledged to embark on a path of rehabilitation, vowing to steer clear of negative behaviour moving forward.
Pop Smoke, born Bashar Barakah Jackson, tragically lost his life in February 2020 during a home invasion in Hollywood Hills. The rapper, aged 20 at the time, was fatally shot with a Beretta 9 mm semiautomatic pistol. Reports revealed that Pop Smoke inadvertently made himself an easy target by sharing his location and possessions on social media. The perpetrators, who ambushed him while he was in the shower, were primarily interested in stealing cash and expensive jewellery, including his Rolex watch, which was later sold for $2,000.
Following Pop Smoke’s death, his debut album titled “Shoot for the Stars Aim for the Moon” was released posthumously. The rapper rose to fame in 2019 with his track “Welcome to the Party” from his EP “Meet the Woo”, featuring a remix with Nicki Minaj. The tragic loss of Pop Smoke deeply impacted the music industry and his fans.
Three of the individuals involved in Pop Smoke’s murder were minors aged 15, 16, and 17 at the time of the incident. They were prosecuted in juvenile court and reached separate agreements. The sentencing of Corey Walker marks a significant chapter in the legal proceedings surrounding the untimely demise of the rising rap star.
The repercussions of this case serve as a reminder of the devastating consequences of gun violence and the importance of accountability in such circumstances. The closure brought by Walker’s sentencing may offer some solace to Pop Smoke’s family and fans, yet the void left by his absence continues to be deeply felt in the music community.
Moving forward, the memory of Pop Smoke and his contributions to the music industry will endure, while the judicial system continues to uphold justice in his honour. Walker’s apology, though unable to bring back what was lost, represents a step towards acknowledging the gravity of his actions and the impact of his choices on others.
In a world where accountability and justice are paramount, the sentencing of Pop Smoke’s killer stands as a testament to the pursuit of fairness and closure in the face of tragedy. The legacy of Pop Smoke lives on through his music, leaving an indelible mark on those who continue to cherish his artistry and spirit.