Convicted in the killing of rapper Pop Smoke, Cory Walker was handed a 29-year prison sentence, drawing a conclusion to the case.
Participating in a robbery that led to the tragic death of rapper Pop Smoke in February 2020, one of the convicted accomplices received a 29-year prison sentence recently. Pop Smoke, also known as Bashar Jackson, lost his life during a robbery at a Los Angeles rental home, causing a significant void in the Hip-Hop community where he had gained fame through hits like “Dior” and “Welcome to the Party.”
Cory Walker, who admitted guilt to various charges related to the murder, spoke at the court before his sentencing, expressing regret.
Offering his sincerest apologies to the family of the late Jackson and his own loved ones, Walker acknowledged the gravity of his actions, acknowledging that no amount of apology can make up for taking a life. Additionally, he expressed remorse for the pain and shame he caused his family over the past five years and apologized to his community.
Walker was given a nine-year sentence for the primary charge and an additional 20 years for firearm enhancements. Concurrently, two six-year sentences were included, totaling his term to 29 years.
While Walker's defense sought waiver of fines due to his financial circumstances, the court imposed a $1,000 restitution fine, pending successful completion of parole.
Concluding his statement, Walker affirmed his commitment to rehabilitation and distancing himself from negative behavior as he embarks on his journey of self-improvement.
In related proceedings, another defendant, who was 15 at the time of the crime and is now 20, pleaded guilty in juvenile court to first-degree murder and home-invasion robbery. A third defendant, aged 17 during the incident, confessed to voluntary manslaughter and home-invasion robbery.
The case involving the fourth individual culminated in an agreement, resulting in placement in a juvenile housing facility post-conviction. While Pop Smoke’s family was absent during the sentencing, the rapper's mother had previously expressed ongoing heartache and injustice over the loss of her son.