A Roanoke man, Joseph Richard Walker, 30, has pled guilty in federal court to charges related to the robbery and murder of his drug supplier. Walker admitted to one count of Hobbs Act Robbery and one count of possessing, brandishing, and discharging a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime and a crime of violence. He faces up to 35 years in prison.

Garrett Isaac Williams, another individual involved in the case, has been indicted on related charges and is awaiting trial.

Acting United States Attorney Zachary T. Lee emphasized the importance of holding violent individuals accountable: “The Department of Justice has no greater mission than to hold accountable those individuals who commit violence in our communities.” He highlighted the role of partnerships with various law enforcement agencies in achieving successful prosecutions.

Stanley M. Meador, Special Agent in Charge of the FBI’s Richmond Division, praised the collaborative efforts leading to Walker's guilty plea: “This multiyear investigation and subsequent guilty plea reflect the diligent and collaborative efforts of multiple law enforcement agencies committed to safeguarding our communities.”

Lieutenant Colonel Matthew Hanley from Virginia State Police remarked on their commitment to justice: “The Virginia State Police is committed to bringing violent offenders to justice... This judicial outcome is a victory for the citizens of the Commonwealth.”

Court documents reveal that Walker and Williams conspired since January 2023 to distribute marijuana supplied by an individual known as E.B., who traveled from Pennsylvania for transactions at Walker’s residence. A phone call from E.B. led Walker and Williams to plan a robbery instead of settling their debt with him.

On April 17, 2023, E.B. arrived at Walker’s home with marijuana products. After confronting E.B., Walker shot him twice, resulting in his death. To cover up the crime, Walker transported E.B.’s body to Bedford County where he set it on fire after taking possession of the drugs.

The investigation was conducted by several agencies including the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI), Virginia State Police, United States Marshals Service, Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF), Brevard County Sheriff’s Office among others.

Assistant U.S. Attorneys M. Coleman Adams and Kelly McGann are handling prosecution duties 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 community collaboration and strategic enforcement priorities established by the Department on May 26, 2021.