She Was Found Dead Inside A Plastic Bin. Her Ex-Boyfriend Pleaded Guilty.
On April 5, 2025, 17-year-old London Thomas was last seen when she was dropped off at her former boyfriend’s house on Carlysle Street in Inkster, Michigan.
Wayne County Prosecutor Kym Worthy previously said London and 23-year-old Jalen Pendergrass had been in a relationship, but the relationship had ended by the time London arrived at the home.
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London was later reported missing.
On April 26, 2025, one of Charla Pendergrass’ friends told the FBI that Charla had asked him to move a sealed bin with unknown contents on April 11.
The man said he placed the bin inside an SUV on Millard Street in Southfield.
When police searched the SUV, they found London’s body inside the bin.
The Oakland County Medical Examiner determined London died from asphyxia.
Her death was ruled a homicide.
In October 2025, Jalen Pendergrass and his mother, 49-year-old Charla Pendergrass, were charged in connection with London’s death.
On July 2, 2026, Jalen Pendergrass pleaded guilty to second-degree murder.
As part of the plea agreement, all other charges against him were dismissed.
Jalen Pendergrass is expected to be sentenced on July 31, 2026.
Charla Pendergrass is expected to appear in court on July 31, 2026, for a pretrial hearing.
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