In a shocking turn of events, a mother and son duo from Michigan have been apprehended for their alleged involvement in the murder of a 17-year-old girl. The suspects, Charla Pendergrass, 49, and her son Jalen Pendergrass, 23, are accused of killing London Thomas, the younger Pendergrass’ girlfriend, earlier this year. The pair are also suspected of orchestrating a prolonged effort to conceal their crime.
The mother and son were arrested earlier this week and are each facing charges of second-degree murder and tampering with evidence. The charges stem from the April death of Thomas, whose body was reportedly found in a plastic bin. Authorities believe the young woman was strangled to death.
During a recent arraignment hearing in Wayne County, the prosecution urged the judge to keep the accused in custody until their trial dates. The prosecutor argued that the evidence against the pair, particularly Charla Pendergrass, was overwhelming. The mother is accused of lying to the police and law enforcement in an attempt to cover up her actions.
The defense attorney for Charla Pendergrass argued for a reasonable bond, highlighting that his client had attended all previous court appearances. However, the prosecution sought no bond for Jalen Pendergrass, citing the severity of the charges and his alleged attempts to mislead investigators. It was also noted that he is currently facing charges in another county for making report about a felony.
The judge ruled that Jalen Pendergrass be held without bond due to the seriousness of the charges. His mother was ordered to be held in lieu of a $5 million bond.
Thomas was reportedly last seen alive in the early hours of April 5, being dropped off at Jalen Pendergrass’ residence in Inkster, a suburb located approximately 15 miles west of Detroit. Thomas’ family reported her missing multiple times in the days following her disappearance.
A significant lead in the case emerged when an individual, claiming to be a friend of Charla Pendergrass, contacted authorities. The friend alleged that Charla Pendergrass had asked for help moving a sealed plastic bin with unknown contents. The bin was later found in an SUV parked outside a Southfield home, containing the remains of Thomas. The cause of death was determined to be asphyxiation.
Wayne County Prosecutor Kim Worthy commended the investigative work of the Michigan State Police, the Detroit Police Department, and the FBI in bringing the alleged perpetrators to justice.