Pop Smoke’s Killer Takes Plea Deal, Faces 29 Years in Prison

The only adult charged in the 2020 murder of Pop Smoke has officially taken a plea deal. Corey Walker, accused of orchestrating the deadly home invasion, pleaded guilty. He admitted to voluntary manslaughter and home invasion robbery with gang and firearm enhancements. As part of the deal, his murder charge was dropped, avoiding a trial. Walker is now set to serve 29 years in prison, with sentencing scheduled for Feb. 21, 2025.

Prosecutors say Walker led a group of juveniles to the Airbnb where Pop Smoke, born Bashar Barakah Jackson, was staying. The group allegedly planned to steal the rapper’s cash, gold chain, and diamond Rolex after seeing them on social media. The location was revealed when Pop Smoke accidentally posted an address label on Instagram. Prosecutors argue the crime was premeditated, citing high levels of cruelty and planning. Walker also admitted to robbing a woman inside the home during the attack.

Pop Smoke’s mother, Audrey Jackson, says the plea deal brings no peace. “It’s over for everybody except me. This never ends for me,” she shared after the hearing. “I still don’t have my son. I will continue working on his legacy, but it’s a constant reminder he’s gone.” Though she appreciates justice being served, it does nothing to heal the pain of losing her child.

During the hearing, prosecutors revealed more details about Walker’s role in the crime. He allegedly surveilled the Airbnb, returned with his crew in a separate car, and handed a 9mm gun to one of the juveniles. He was in constant phone contact with the intruders while waiting in the getaway car. After the shooting, they sold Pop Smoke’s stolen Rolex for just $2,000. In court, Walker admitted to everything, responding “yes” to every question from the prosecutor.

Walker asked to interact briefly with his 4-year-old daughter, whom he has never held. He was arrested while her mother was six months pregnant, meaning he has only seen her from jail. Before being escorted out, Walker turned and blew his daughter a kiss. His lawyers say the plea deal gives him a chance at some future, though it doesn’t erase what happened. “This should have never happened,” his attorney, Kellen Davis, told reporters after court.

Walker, now 24, initially faced life without parole if convicted of murder. Prosecutors originally said he was eligible for the death penalty under California law. However, changes in LA’s justice policies meant the case would never pursue capital punishment. The three juveniles charged alongside Walker were handled differently under state laws. The 15-year-old shooter received 50 years to life but may be eligible for release at age 25.

Court documents reveal the full breakdown of what happened inside the home. The intruders, wearing ski masks and gloves, broke into Pop Smoke’s upstairs bedroom. The rapper was in the shower when they stormed in, pistol-whipping him before shots were fired. Pop Smoke was hit three times in the back with a Beretta 9mm semi-automatic pistol. After escaping, Walker allegedly searched Google for Rolex values, looking to sell the stolen watch immediately.

Walker’s former defense lawyer, Christopher Darden, claimed his client did not plan the killing. Darden insisted Walker’s role was limited to driving the car and waiting outside. He argued Walker told his accomplices to use a vase instead of a gun if things escalated. However, prosecutors presented phone records, surveillance footage, and searches tying him to the planning. The case ultimately hinged on Walker’s involvement in setting up the crime, not pulling the trigger.

The eldest of the juvenile suspects, who was 17 at the time, took a plea deal last year. He admitted to voluntary manslaughter and home invasion robbery and was sentenced in April 2023. The third juvenile, 16 at the time, was also convicted and sent to a juvenile housing facility. While the shooter received the harshest sentence, all three were found guilty of direct involvement in the crime. California law, however, limits how long minors can be held in prison.

Walker’s legal team says they could have fought the murder charge, but the robbery enhancements still carried a potential life sentence. “This was the best way to ensure he gets out one day,” attorney Deion Benjamin stated. Walker’s family remains devastated but hopeful that he will see freedom later in life. Meanwhile, Pop Smoke’s family continues working to honor his legacy. His mother, Audrey Jackson, says she has no plans to attend Walker’s sentencing next year.

Instead, she is launching a new clothing line in Pop Smoke’s name. She will also host a charity gala in Brooklyn, recognizing leaders in the community. The event is part of the Shoot for the Stars Foundation, which she created to support young artists. “I have a full week of events celebrating my son’s life,” she said. “I don’t hold animosity. I’m just moving forward.”

While justice has been served in court, the loss of Pop Smoke still lingers. The Brooklyn rapper was on the verge of superstardom, with many calling him the future of New York rap. His music still dominates playlists, with hits like “Dior” and “The Woo” remaining fan favorites. The industry lost a rising legend, and for many, the pain hasn’t faded. Though his killers are behind bars, Pop Smoke’s impact will never be forgotten.