DETROIT – The suspects linked to the discovery of a missing teenager’s body in Oakland County were released by police, but then one was re-arrested and charged with lying to cops during the investigation.
London Thomas goes missing
London Thomas, 17, was reported missing after she disappeared on April 5 in Inkster.
Police said Thomas was dropped off at her boyfriend’s house on Carlysle Street that day.
The search lasted weeks and included the FBI going through Thomas’ boyfriend’s house.
Body found in Southfield
Thomas was found dead on Saturday, April 26, 2025, in Southfield.
Michigan State Police didn’t reveal any of the circumstances surrounding Thomas’ death, but they said they had two people in custody who were “believed to be involved in her disappearance.”
“Our condolences go out to the family and friends of London,” Michigan State Police Lt. Mike Shaw said. “While a majority of the investigation has been completed by DPD and the FBI, there is still work to do. Our No. 1 goal is to bring justice for London and her family. In order to accomplish this goal, we will not be releasing any further information on this investigation at this time.”
2 suspects released, 1 back in custody
Michigan State Police revealed on Friday that both people who were in custody had been released following a hearing in the case.
That hearing took place Thursday, but it’s not clear if the suspects were released Thursday or Friday.
On Friday, an investigator’s report was submitted, and police received a warrant for one of the two people for lying to police.
Woman charged with lying to police
The Wayne County Prosecutor’s office revealed that the person charged with lying to police is Charla Rashida Pendergrass, 48, of Clawson.
“Pendergrass failed to tell the truth to FBI agents while they were conducting a criminal investigation into the death of London Thomas,” Prosecutor Kym Worthy said in her release.
Lying to police during a violent crime investigation is a felony with a maximum penalty of four years in prison.
Pendergrass was arraigned Friday afternoon at 22nd District Court and given a $50,000 bond, cash/surety. She must wear a GPS tether, if released.
Pendergrass was told to avoid contact with the witnesses in the investigation, and she was also told to surrender her passport and remain in Michigan. She can’t possess weapons or ammunition.
A probable cause conference is scheduled for 9 a.m. May 7, 2025.
Prosecutors said parts of this case remain under investigation.
Anyone with information about this case should call the Detroit Police Department’s 8th Precinct at 313-596-5840 or Crime Stoppers at 1-800-Speak Up.
All tips to Crime Stoppers are anonymous. Click here to submit a tip online.
READ: More Missing in Michigan coverage
