ATLANTA, Ga. — Angel Thompson, previously charged with concealing the death of her girlfriend Nicole Alston, now faces a charge of malice murder, along with two counts of identity theft, according to the Fulton County District Attorney’s Office.
During a Wednesday news conference, District Attorney Fani Willis revealed plans to carefully prepare an indictment that will include charges of human trafficking related to the victim prior to her death.
Nicole Alston, 24, was discovered deceased in December 2007 near Whitfield Road and Stitcher Road in unincorporated LaGrange. Her body was found in a burning bag with her head, hands, and feet missing. Despite the grisly crime, Alston’s identity wasn’t confirmed until 2024.
Troup County Sheriff’s Investigator Clay Bryant called the crime “beyond the pale,” describing the perpetrator as a “true sociopath.”
Thompson was arrested a year ago after investigators uncovered that she had fraudulently collected Social Security benefits, food stamps, and Section 8 housing aid in Alston’s name for eight years following her death.
Sandy Springs detective John Nanoff expressed astonishment at Thompson’s continued use of the victim’s identity for financial gain, stating she opened email accounts, bank accounts, and maintained communication with government agencies to receive benefits.
The arrest warrant now alleges Thompson committed “homicidal violence by undetermined means.”
Alston’s family revealed she had moved from New York to Atlanta with Thompson, who was already wanted in New York for theft and identity fraud at the time.
Nicole’s mother, Sylvia Alston, expressed heartbreak over the situation, saying, “She didn’t deserve this, and I wish I had never let her come to Georgia.”
This investigation is ongoing. Updates will be provided as more information becomes available.
