Corey Walker, the last individual convicted of rapper Pop Smoke’s 2020 murder, expressed deep regret in his ruling in Los Angeles on Friday.
Walker, 24, received a 29-year sentence after accepting a plea agreement on February 5th. He pleaded guilty to voluntary manslaughter and two robberies in connection with the rapper’s death.
In court, Walker issued a sincere apology to Smoke’s family despite his absence. He admitted that an apology cannot compensate for taking someone else’s life. “The Jacksons are not here in court today, but I would like to sincerely apologize for my unforgivable actions,” Walker said, according to a Rolling Stone report.
Walker also expressed regret over the pain that his actions caused his own family and community. “I would also like to apologise to my family for the pain and embarrassment I have endured over the past five years,” he added.
Initially, Walker avoided a more severe penalty through a plea deal, as he was initially charged with murder and faced a life sentence without the possibility of parole. He thanked the defense team for helping us achieve this result. “Today, I am responsible for my horrific involvement in these crimes,” Walker said. “When you start your path to rehabilitation, you can ensure that you avoid negative behavior.”
Bashar Baraka Jackson-born Pop Smoke was killed while staying at a rental home in Hollywood Hills during a home break-in in February 2020. The Walker-led attacker broke into the group after 20-year-old Pop Smoke unconsciously revealed his Instagram address. They shot him multiple times and stole valuables, including a Rolex watch.
Walker was the only adult charged with a crime, but the other three involved were boys who reached separate plea deals.