The final defendant in the 2020 murder of rapper Pop Smoke has been sentenced to 29 years in prison, marking the end of a high-profile case that shook the music industry. The sentencing took place in a Los Angeles courtroom on Friday, concluding a four-year legal battle over the brutal killing of the rising rap star. The convicted man, who was a teenager at the time of the crime, was among a group of intruders who carried out a home invasion that turned fatal.
Pop Smoke, whose real name was Bashar Barakah Jackson, was shot and killed on February 19, 2020, during a robbery at a Hollywood Hills rental home. The 20-year-old rapper was on the verge of mainstream success, with his mixtape Meet the Woo 2 debuting just weeks before his death. His murder sent shockwaves throughout the hip-hop community, leading to intense scrutiny of social media’s role in crime, as well as debates over security measures for young celebrities.
Shooter Expresses Remorse for His Actions
During Friday’s sentencing, the defendant expressed deep remorse for his role in the killing, addressing both the court and Pop Smoke’s family. He admitted that his actions led to the death of a young man with a promising future, stating that he deeply regrets the choices he made. His lawyer argued that as a juvenile at the time, he was influenced by older gang members and did not fully comprehend the gravity of his actions.
Despite his expression of regret, the judge handed down a 29-year sentence, emphasizing the brutality of the crime and its devastating impact. The courtroom was filled with an air of finality, as this was the last sentencing in the case. The victim’s family, though still grieving, has sought justice for years, and this verdict marks the closure of a painful chapter for them.
The Deadly Home Invasion That Ended a Rising Career
The events leading to Pop Smoke’s murder unfolded rapidly in the early hours of February 19, 2020. Prosecutors revealed that a group of four suspects, including the convicted man, tracked the rapper’s location through social media posts that inadvertently revealed the address of his Airbnb rental. Armed and masked, they broke into the property, confronting Pop Smoke in a targeted robbery attempt.
During the encounter, tensions escalated, and the then-15-year-old shooter fired a fatal shot at the rapper. Reports indicate that the suspects took a Rolex watch, later selling it for just $2,000. The senseless nature of the crime, coupled with the rapper’s burgeoning success, intensified public outrage and highlighted the growing dangers celebrities face due to oversharing online.
Pop Smoke’s Legacy Lives On Through His Music
Despite his untimely death, Pop Smoke’s influence continues to grow. His posthumous album Shoot for the Stars, Aim for the Moon debuted at No. 1 on the Billboard 200 chart, solidifying his status as one of hip-hop’s most promising talents. Songs like Dior and What You Know Bout Love remain cultural staples, keeping his voice alive in the industry.
The late rapper’s unique sound, a fusion of Brooklyn drill and UK grime influences, set him apart in an era of evolving hip-hop trends. His legacy has inspired a new wave of artists who continue to push the drill music movement forward. Even in death, Pop Smoke’s music serves as a reminder of what could have been, had his life not been tragically cut short.
A Case That Sparked Conversations About Youth and Crime
The involvement of teenagers in Pop Smoke’s murder reignited discussions about juvenile crime and gang recruitment. Three of the four suspects, including the final convicted man, were minors at the time of the incident. Legal experts and social activists have pointed out how systemic issues, including lack of guidance and economic struggles, often push youth toward criminal activity.
California’s juvenile justice system has been at the center of debates over whether minors involved in violent crimes should be tried as adults. While some argue for stricter sentencing to deter youth crime, others advocate for rehabilitation-focused approaches. This case serves as a grim reminder of the consequences young offenders face when they are drawn into gang violence.
The End of a High-Profile Trial, But Not the Pain
With this final sentencing, the legal proceedings in Pop Smoke’s murder case have officially concluded. However, for his family, friends, and fans, the pain remains. The rapper’s mother, Audrey Jackson, has been vocal about her grief, advocating for initiatives that support at-risk youth and prevent similar tragedies.
As the hip-hop world continues to mourn his loss, many hope that lessons can be learned from this tragedy. Whether through increased awareness of online security, better mentorship for at-risk youth, or stronger legal protections, the conversation sparked by Pop Smoke’s death will likely continue for years to come. His life was cut short, but his impact will not be forgotten.
