The Misery Machine - The Case of London Thomas

Starting point is 00:00:03 London Ryan Thomas was born on May 10, 2007 in Detroit, Michigan, to parents Jasma Bennett and Cedric Salisbury. Her parents separated sometime following her... Yama Vah Resort and Casino at San Manuel is California's number one entertainment destination for today's superstars. Catch the Jonas Brothers return to the Yamava theater stage on April 30th, the powerful vocals of Demi Lovato on May 17th, and the signature Southern Country Rock of Eric Church on July 19th. Tickets on sale now at yamava Theater.com. Only at Yamava Resort and Casino, celebrating its 40th anniversary.

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Starting point is 00:01:38 You're clearly. We're gonna hit. Zootopia 2. Now available on Disney Plus rated PG. Birth and her mother remarried a man named Arnell Johnson. London grew up surrounded by care and stability. Her mother, father, and stepfather deeply cared for her, loved her and supported her. Those close to her described her upbringing as one that was rooted in strong values, compassion, and emotional support.

Starting point is 00:02:04 Her cousin, Danielle Douglas, later remembered London as a vibrant and warm presence, saying she had a bright spirit. She was loving. She was caring. Full of energy. Always the life of the party. London was especially close to her dad. They spoke almost every day, and he described their bond as inseparable.

Starting point is 00:02:24 To him, London wasn't just his child, but his best friend. He described her as a kind-hearted soul, saying, she's a good kid. She's very talented. She's down to earth. Everybody loves her. London attended Beach Elementary before later attending

Starting point is 00:02:40 Hilbert Middle School. Friends remembered her as someone who smiled easily and couldn't help but make you smile too. London was intelligent and hardworking. She had a strong interest in music and hairstyling. Despite her young age, London was responsible as well.

Starting point is 00:02:56 She almost always had a job. London's warmth was felt across the entire family. Her aunt Connie, Ford remembered her as naturally caring and selfless, she said. It shows she was a loving child, well loved. She was happy and friendly. If your hair wasn't done, she'd do it for you. She was just a good kid.

Starting point is 00:03:18 That affection was very easy to see in London's relationship with her grandmother, Justina Martin. London would often call her grandmother simply to say that she loved her. Justina cherished her. Her home was filled with photographs of London. Just days before, her disappearance, Justina had given her 20 bucks for pizza. But at the time, Justina was unaware that this would be the very last interaction she would ever have with her granddaughter. London was also

Starting point is 00:03:47 seeing Jalen Pendergrass, which was a relationship that her family had never approved of. Jalen was 23 years old, nearly six years older than London, who was 17 at the time. London ignored her family's pleas to leave him over and over again. But they must have have eventually gotten through to her because around late March to early April, just weeks before her high school graduation, she finally broke things off with him. Approximately 4 a.m. on April 5th, London asked her sister to drive her to the 27200 block of Carlisle Street near Inkster Road in Inkster, Michigan. She'd be noted that this is close to Jalen's home. Her sister dropped her off on the street and drove away. Why London went there remains unclear, but whatever the reason

Starting point is 00:04:33 was. She was never seen alive after that. When hours passed with no calls or messages, London's sister began to worry. Later that same day on April 5th, she reported London missing to the Inkster police. The next day, London's mother, Jasm, filed an additional missing person's report with the Detroit police. She knew something was wrong. It was not like London to disappear without telling anybody, especially not our sisters, she said. They didn't go a day without talking to each other. No matter where they were or what they did. So all of this is strange. We haven't talked to her. We haven't seen her. We know nothing. Cedric shared the same concerns with the media saying, I'm her best friend. She calls me for everything, and I haven't heard from her, and I know something's not right.

Starting point is 00:05:20 Later on, London's family also noticed something strange. Her phone was on a family plan and relatives could view her last known location, and according to her grandmother, the phone last pinged behind the Cooper Elementary School in Westland, Michigan. This location was approximately six miles from where London's sister had dropped her off. The school is also bordered by a cemetery, a trailer park, and nearby residential neighborhoods. On one side of the school, there are tall trees, an overgrown brush, and suspicious activity could easily go unnoticed there. At first, only the Inkster police were involved in the case, but as things progressed, the Detroit police, Michigan State Police, and even the FBI joined the investigation.

Starting point is 00:06:01 At the same time, London's family did everything they could to bring her home safely. They put up flyers throughout the area where London was last seen, as well as near the school where her phone last pinged. Family members also made pleas to the media for London's safe return. The flyer described her as a 17-year-old girl, approximately 5 foot 8 inches tall, weighing 115 pounds, with reddish blonde hair. She was last seen wearing pink crocs, black leggings, and either a black hoodie featuring a Jason mask, or a dark green hoodie with the words, 1-800 mental health matters.

Starting point is 00:06:31 Earlier in September of 2021, a woman had posted videos on TikTok, alleging that Jalen had essayed her. She claimed the incidents occurred in the same general area where London's phone last pinged. However, these allegations were never substantiated through criminal charges.

Starting point is 00:06:48 Even so, after London went missing, the same woman returned to TikTok and expressed fear that Jalen may have harmed another girl. regardless, London's family remained focused on her safety in return. They made it clear they were not publicly accusing anyone. Her stepfather, Darnell, addressed the situation directly saying, Nobody has accused anybody of anything. Not our family.

Starting point is 00:07:12 We just want her home. If anybody's pointing fingers, it's people online. It's not our family. London's parents described the ordeal as a nightmare. Cedric organized a community search effort to comb the area where London was last believed to have been seen. At the same time, crime stoppers of Michigan announced a $2,500 reward for information

Starting point is 00:07:34 related to London's disappearance. In the days leading up to the search, London's parents also shared her story on Facebook. It weren't optimistic about how much help they would receive, but on Saturday, April 12th, an overwhelming number of people showed up to support the search. Although the effort didn't uncover any new leads that gave the family hope,

Starting point is 00:07:53 Jasmah was moved by the support saying, I'm grateful for the community that came out. Friends, family, people on Facebook, friends of friends, friends of family, people I've never even known. I don't even have a social media presence, so it just took me by surprise when everybody came together. It was heartwarming and it was a blessing. However, the search understandably took an immense toll on London's parents

Starting point is 00:08:16 who described it as the hardest experience of their lives. So far, investigators had only one clear lead. London had last been reported near the home of her ex-boyfriend Jalen. In the very beginning, London's family suggested that Jalen could be the one responsible, but without concrete evidence, police could not act immediately. As things progress, police confirmed that London had been at Jalen's residence during the early morning hours of April 5th, 2025. Vest Gators then made contact with Jalen and his mother, Shara.

Starting point is 00:08:47 Both initially denied having anything to do with London's disappearance. Sharla even told investigators that she had seen London leave the house that night. However, police later determined this to be false. Police obtained a search warrant which was served on the evening of Thursday, April 17th, nearly two weeks after London was last seen. The search was conducted as part of an ongoing investigation into London's disappearance, specifically to determine her whereabouts and gather evidence. While we know now that this house was where Jalen and his mother lived,

Starting point is 00:09:18 the police did not publicly release their names. Detroit major crimes commander Rebecca McKay gave a public statement saying, we are looking into possible foul play. We do have two persons of interest right now that we are investigating. That same day, London's parents organized another community search, expanding the area surrounding the school where her phone had last pinged. As volunteers gathered once again, the emotional weight of the situation became overwhelming for London's parents.

Starting point is 00:09:46 Her mother broke down in tears, making a public plea for London to return home safely. We've been scouring all of the area and, well, mostly of Inkster. We did do Westland from the beginning and now we think that it's time to come back, bring more awareness, go further out, expand more, do more. Yeah, because we don't know what else to do at this time. We should be 18 in May 10th and that makes it even worse. Have you heard anything?

Starting point is 00:10:19 It's just ridiculous. Yeah, I'm sorry. You know, I don't know what was gathered from the police when they did the actual raid and search. The thing besides my daughter being back in my home alive, safe and well, that is my focus. And I ask you please to pray for that. Please, for us and our family, please. This is all we have.

Starting point is 00:10:46 I need you all. need you all for that. It makes me feel loved. It makes me feel like that is a peace of God that is moving them. As days past, the situation grew increasingly unclear. London's stepfather said he was doing everything he could to hold on to hope. The family was deeply frustrated by what they described as a lack of cooperation from Jalen during the search. London's aunt, Yolanda Douglas, voiced these concerns publicly, saying, all of these lies just to push us away from what we're trying to do, and more and more stuff is coming out. And then you have people coming from any and everywhere that want to direct you into different directions. That's what's bringing my sister down. We don't

Starting point is 00:11:36 need all of that. We just need to know right here, what did you do with her? You were the last person seen with her. What's going on and where is she at? Although the pendergrass family wasn't charged with any crimes, at least had their suspicions and their lies could not stay hidden forever. On April 26th, nearly three weeks after London was last seen, any remaining hope of finding her alive was lost. Investigators discovered London Thomas' decomposing body inside an SUV parked in the driveway of a home in the area of Millard Street and Berg Road in Southfield, Michigan.

Starting point is 00:12:13 The Inxter Police Department had received a tip from an individual that was an acquaintance of Charlotte Pendergrass. The individual told investigators that Charlotte asked for help. moving a sealed plastic container with unknown contents. The container was placed inside the SUV on April 11th, weeks before London's body was discovered. London's remains were transported to the Oakland County Medical Examiner's office where an autopsy was conducted.

Starting point is 00:12:40 The medical examiner determined that London died from asphyxia and the manner of death was ruled a homicide. Following this major breakthrough, Jalen and his mother, Charla, were taken into custody. At that time, police still did not. publicly release their names, only stating that they had two persons of interest in the case. Michigan State Police Lieutenant Mike Shaw addressed the public stating, our condolences go out to the family and friends of London, while a majority of the

Starting point is 00:13:05 investigation has been completed by DPD and the FBI, there's still work to do. Our number one 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. You thought this was your run club era. Turns out, it was more of a thinking about run club era. The good news? Someone's marathon training is about to start. Sell your workout gear on Deepop.

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Starting point is 00:14:33 Overcome with grief, he shared his pain publicly, saying, Justice for London for me means everything right now. I'm so heartbroken. I just, I need answers. I have no answers. I want answers. London's aunts and her grandmother expressed gratitude that she had been found, though, not in the way which they had prayed for. The family were still haunted by unanswered questions. The most important one.

Starting point is 00:14:58 Why? Why was London killed? And why wouldn't police release the names of the two suspects in custody? London's grandmother, Justina Martin, said she wanted those responsible to be held fully accountable. In an interview, held days after London's body was found. She broke down in tears remembering her granddaughter. I understand London was a really special girl. full of life. How would you describe her?

Starting point is 00:15:24 That was my baby. I want my baby back. Oh God. It's the hardest thing I've got me. Oh God, just been trying to be strong. Oh God. Not knowing what she went through. That kills me the most. What she went through? Oh, that's not that.

Starting point is 00:15:58 On Thursday, May 1st, both suspects Jalen and his mother, Charla, appeared in court and were later released. The following day, Charla was re-arrested and formally charged with lying to a peace officer. According to Wayne County prosecutor Kim Worthy, Pendergrass failed to tell the truth to FBI agents while they were conducting a criminal investigation into the death of London Thomas. Lying to a police officer during an investigation is a felony offense with a maximum sentence of up to four years in prison. prison. Charla's bond was set at $50,000 cash. If released, she was required to wear a GPS monitor. In addition to the bond conditions, Charla was ordered to surrender her passport, remained within the state of Michigan, and have no contact with any witnesses involved in the investigation. On Monday, August 4, 2025, the charges against Charla were officially dropped

Starting point is 00:16:48 due to a legal technicality involving the status of the officers who conducted her interviews. During the hearing, Assistant Wayne County prosecutor Dominic deGrazia explained that under Michigan law, the FBI agents who interviewed Charlotte did not legally qualify as peace officers. Because the statute specifically applies to false statements made to peace officers, prosecution argued that the charge could not stand. He stated, it's alleged that the defendant made these false statements to two special agents from the FBI. I've communicated with them. Neither one of them were ever licensed as a police officer in the state of Michigan.

Starting point is 00:17:27 There were no other law enforcement agents present when this interaction occurred. There are some statutes that would permit a federal agent to be authorized to be a police officer. But however, the way the legislature wrote this statute, I don't believe that trying to proceed under that theory would survive appellate review. The charge against Charlo was dismissed without prejudice. Charlo was allowed to roam free. But it wouldn't be long before that would change. On October 16th, prosecutors announced that 23-year-old Jalen and his mother, 49-year-old

Starting point is 00:17:57 Sharla, were both formally charged with second-degree murder and tampering with evidence in connection with the death of London Thomas. Prosecutor-worthy addressed the public stating, I am proud of the excellent work that has been done in this case. It has taken countless hours of investigation and diligent work by the Michigan State Police, the Detroit Police Department, and the FBI. As a result of that work, we've been able to charge and bring the perpetrators of this cruel and deadly crime to justice.

Starting point is 00:18:23 London's stepfather Darnell said he had always suspected Jalen's involvement in her disappearance. To him, the charges only confirmed what he and others had felt all along. Darnell also spoke about the pain of accepting how much cruelty someone could inflict on a young person. Since London's death, he has honored her by getting a tattoo in her memory. Cedric expressed both relief and gratitude, telling the public, just so happy and praised for this moment because it's long overdue. We all knew that they did something, and we're just happy that the light has been shown and thankful.

Starting point is 00:18:56 Hopefully they did a thorough investigation, and maybe that's why it took so long, and we can move forward and wrap this up so my daughter can rest in peace now. London's grandmother also shared the same sentiments, saying she wanted justice for her granddaughter, that those responsible should face the maximum possible punishment. Charlene and Jalen were arraigned at 9 a.m. on Friday, October 17, 2025 in Inkester's 22nd District Court before Judge Sabrina Watson. Charla was upgraded to a $5 million cash bond. Jalen, however, was held without bond due to additional charges pending against him in Oakland County.

Starting point is 00:19:31 In a separate case, he was accused of filing a false police report in November of 2024. The charge carries a maximum sentence of up to four years. Wayne County Assistant Prosecuting Attorney Dominic deGrazia, stated that investigators believe the evidence will clearly show a sustained effort to misleave law enforcement. He said the following. This is a case where the evidence, I believe, will be abundant that both defendants, but in particular, Ms. Sharla Pendergrass, engaged in an extended campaign to lie to lie to law enforcement to cover up her actions. Jayland's defense attorney Adam Clements urged to let the evidence play itself out and respect the process. Meanwhile, Sharla's attorney

Starting point is 00:20:10 Terry L. Johnson expressed confidence in his client's defense. He characterized the case as nothing more than a rehash of earlier allegations, saying it looked like the same recycled case from April when they couldn't prove anything, referring to when she had been previously detained and later released. Attorney Johnson added that he did not believe prosecutors would be able to meet the burden of proof and insisted that his client would ultimately be shown to a jury to be not guilty. Despite the opposing narratives, the case remains ongoing. Both Charla and Jalen Pendergrass are scheduled to appear in court for preliminary examinations on January 23rd, 2026. Both of us are going to be keeping an eye out for updates because we've wanted to talk about London's story for a while now.

Starting point is 00:20:53 And as the trial hasn't even begun yet, both Charlotte and Jalen are considered innocent until proven guilty in a court of law. On May 10, 2025, the day London would have turned 18. For family was instead forced to bury her. Rather than letting the day be consumed by grief alone, they chose to honor her life. Loved ones gathered at Claude Allison Park in Redford Township to celebrate who London was and remember her for her loving nature. The memorial was attended by family members, friends, and members of the community. Despite the heartbreak, there was warmth in the air. Children shared ice cream, posters of London were displayed throughout the park, and for a moment her spirit felt present.

Starting point is 00:21:38 And friends gathered to celebrate what would have been her 18th birthday. But instead of celebrating with her, they're honoring her life. I'm joyful just because I know it's her birthday. And this is what she would have wanted. Any 18-year-old would have loved this. Jasma Bennett had to bury her daughter, London Thomas, on the same day she gave birth to her. It's just a waking nightmare to have your child that you carry for 10 full months

Starting point is 00:22:04 to be ripped away from you. We think everybody who gave us the time to, you know, try to find London, and we hate that everything happened and where it happened, but today we just need justice. We want justice. She didn't deserve that. No child deserves this. London's uncle Darius Hatcher said,

Starting point is 00:22:28 You know we really miss her, we really love her, and we do have a sense of peace and comfort to a certain extent. extent with today, and we're just trying to make it as happy as possible as opposed to the tragedy that's set before us. So we're trying to remember the fun and happy times. London's mother Jasma also shared similar remarks saying, she loved everyone. And by this turnout from what you see, her love spread far. If London's case resonated with you, then please click here to check out the ongoing case of Niziah Harris. She's also from Detroit and another teen girl who is still currently missing.

The Misery Machine - The Case of London Thomas

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