A Georgia woman has been charged with the murder and identity theft of her girlfriend from New York, who was found dismembered and burned almost 18 years ago, authorities have revealed.
Angel Thompson is accused of killing 24-year-old Nicole Alston in December 2007. Alston’s remains, cut into 13 pieces and lacking hands, feet, and a head, were discovered in a burning body bag on a quiet road in Georgia, according to a recent announcement from Fulton County officials.
Clay Bryant, an investigator with the Troup County Sheriff’s Department, described the crime as involving a “true sociopath.” The gruesome nature of the crime, along with the state of the remains, contributed to the prolonged delay in identifying Alston, who had last been known to reside in Manhattan.
Earlier this year, authorities revisited the cold case and matched DNA evidence from a relative to confirm the identity of the remains as belonging to Alston. Investigators learned that she had left New York in 2007 to live with Thompson, who was already wanted for theft and identity fraud in her home state.
Thompson allegedly trafficked Alston before her murder, resulting in an abusive relationship, as characterized by authorities. Fulton County District Attorney Fani Willis noted that Thompson appeared to see Alston not just as a partner but also as a source of income.
On the night of Alston’s murder, police believe she was using dating apps to seek out other women, which may have contributed to the crime. After Alston’s remains were found, Thompson reportedly engaged in identity theft by collecting Social Security benefits, food stamps, and housing assistance for nearly eight years under Alston’s name.
Thompson went as far as opening new bank and email accounts in Alston’s name and even swapped her own photo for Alston’s on her driver’s license in 2010. Detective John Nanoff expressed disbelief at the calculated nature of her actions over such an extended period.
In 2015, when the Social Security Administration sought to confirm her identity, Thompson switched back to using her original identity, but during her time impersonating Alston, she allegedly collected approximately $140,000 in government benefits.
Thompson was arrested in August 2023 for concealing Alston’s death and, as of this week, has now been charged with her murder and two counts of identity theft.
The mother of the victim, Sylvia Austin, shared her heartbreak, stating she never gave up hope in finding her daughter. She expressed remorse for allowing Alston to move to Georgia, recalling how vibrant and joyful she was despite her struggles.
Willis emphasized that prosecutors would proceed carefully with the case due to its complexity. Authorities are requesting anyone with information about Thompson or the relationship between the two women to come forward.
As it stands, Thompson is currently being held at the Fulton County Jail without bond, awaiting further legal proceedings. The unfolding of this tragic story serves as a reminder of the darker sides of human relationships and the serious consequences of crime.
