A Roanoke man has admitted guilt in the killing of his drug supplier and setting the body on fire. Joseph Richard Walker, 30, entered a guilty plea in federal court to charges including Hobbs Act Robbery and using a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime and violence. Walker may face up to 35 years in prison.
Another individual, Garrett Isaac Williams, is facing related charges and awaits trial.
Acting United States Attorney Zachary T. Lee commented on the case: “The Department of Justice has no greater mission than to hold accountable those individuals who commit violence in our communities.” He emphasized the importance of partnerships with law enforcement agencies for successful prosecutions against violent criminals.
Stanley M. Meador from the FBI's Richmond Division highlighted the collaborative efforts involved: “This multiyear investigation and subsequent guilty plea reflect the diligent and collaborative efforts of multiple law enforcement agencies committed to safeguarding our communities.”
Virginia State Police Interim Superintendent Lieutenant Colonel Matthew Hanley remarked on their commitment: “Our special agents work tirelessly with our federal and local partners every day to make Virginia a safer place to live."
Court documents reveal that Walker and Williams conspired since January 2023 to distribute marijuana supplied by E.B., who traveled from Pennsylvania for sales at Walker’s residence. A phone call from E.B. to Walker’s mother prompted them to plan a robbery instead of paying debts owed.
On April 17, 2023, E.B. arrived at Walker's home with marijuana but was shot twice by Walker during a confrontation about the phone call. To hide his actions, Walker transported E.B.’s body in his car trunk to Bedford County, Virginia, where he set it ablaze after taking possession of the drugs.
The investigation involves multiple agencies including the FBI, Virginia State Police, U.S. Marshals Service, ATF, Brevard County Sheriff’s Office among others.
Assistant U.S. Attorneys M. Coleman Adams and Kelly McGann are leading prosecution efforts with assistance from Assistant U.S. Attorney Drew O. Inman.
This case forms part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), aimed at reducing violent crime through coordinated community-law enforcement strategies initiated by the Department in May 2021.