News Summary
Charla Rashida Pendergrass, 48, from Clawson, faces serious legal repercussions after being charged with lying to police during the investigation of 17-year-old London Thomas’s death. Pendergrass was arraigned on a felony charge that could lead to four years in prison. Allegedly, she provided false information to FBI agents while police probe Thomas’s disappearance and death. The case has raised community concerns about youth safety as investigations continue.
Clawson, Michigan – A 48-year-old woman from Clawson, Charla Rashida Pendergrass, faces serious legal repercussions after being charged with lying to police during the investigation of the death of 17-year-old London Thomas. Pendergrass was arraigned on this felony charge, which carries a potential sentence of up to four years in prison.
The Wayne County Prosecutor’s Office revealed that Pendergrass allegedly provided false information to FBI agents between April 5, 2025, and April 24, 2025. As part of her bail conditions, she was issued a $50,000 cash/surety bond, mandated to wear a GPS tether upon release, and prohibited from contacting witnesses involved in the investigation. Additionally, she has been ordered to surrender her passport.
London Thomas was reported missing on April 8, three days after being dropped off at her boyfriend’s house in Inkster. Tragically, her body was discovered inside a parked white SUV in Southfield on April 26, 2025, weeks after she was reported missing. Neighbors had observed the SUV parked near their homes for two weeks prior to the grim finding.
At Pendergrass’ arraignment, Wayne County Assistant Prosecutor Anna Merigian indicated that there is video evidence that implicates Pendergrass in providing false testimony to authorities. Pendergrass’ probable cause conference is scheduled for May 7, 2025, while investigations into Thomas’ death are ongoing, with law enforcement suggesting that more suspects may be involved.
Besides Pendergrass, London Thomas’ ex-boyfriend, who is believed to have been the last person to see her alive, has also been named as a suspect in the case. The complexities of this situation are heightened by the recent arrest of Pendergrass’ son, Jalen Pendergrass, for allegedly filing a false police report in a separate case. He has since been released on bond.
London Thomas’ family remains in a state of heartbreak over her untimely death. Her grandmother, Jestina Martin, has publicly stated her suspicions regarding Pendergrass, asserting that she believes Pendergrass knows more than she is disclosing. The family continues to seek justice for London as investigations proceed.
While specific details surrounding her death remain scarce, community members are rallying in support of Thomas’ family as they mourn her loss and search for answers. The investigation into the circumstances surrounding her death, along with the legal proceedings involving Charla Pendergrass, indicates that the case is far from resolved.
As law enforcement works diligently to gather evidence and uncover the truth, the public is urged to share any information that might assist in the investigation. This case has highlighted serious concerns surrounding youth safety and the need for community vigilance.
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Additional Resources
- Click on Detroit: Ex-boyfriend of London Thomas Out on Bond
- Wikipedia: London Thomas
- WXYZ: 2nd Person of Interest in Death of London Thomas Arrested
- Google Search: London Thomas Death Investigation
- Fox 2 Detroit: Clawson Woman Charged in London Thomas Death Investigation
- Google Scholar: London Thomas Case
- Detroit News: Clawson Woman Charged with Lying to FBI
- Encyclopedia Britannica: London Thomas
Author: STAFF HERE NOVI WRITER
NOVI STAFF WRITER The NOVI STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HERENovi.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Novi, Oakland County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as Motor City Comic Con, Michigan State Fair, and Novi Home and Garden Show. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Novi Chamber of Commerce and Novi Community Foundation, plus leading businesses in automotive, technology, and manufacturing that power the local economy such as Gentherm, Stoneridge, and Daifuku North America. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREDetroitMI.com, HEREGrandRapids.com, HERENorthville.com, and HEREPlymouth.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Michigan's dynamic landscape.
