Woman Charged With Murder After Nearly a Decade of Living Under Girlfriend’s Identity, Exposed by DNA Breakthrough

Nearly 20 years after a burning bag filled with human remains was discovered on a roadside in Georgia, authorities say they have finally solved the case. A woman once accused of stealing her girlfriend’s identity has now been charged with her murder following a groundbreaking DNA analysis.

The Discovery That Sparked a Cold Case

In December 2007, a passerby in Troup County, Georgia, made a horrifying discovery: a smoldering bag left on the side of the road. Inside were the dismembered remains of a woman. Investigators quickly realized the victim’s hands, feet, and head were missing, making identification nearly impossible. For years, the case remained cold.

It wasn’t until 2023, with the help of advanced DNA testing, that the remains were identified as 24-year-old Nicole Alston, a New York woman who had left her home to start a new life in Georgia with her girlfriend, Angel Marie Thompson.

A Relationship That Turned Deadly

Records show that in the weeks before her death, Nicole had confided in her mother, Sylvia Alston, that Thompson had become abusive. Just ten days later, Nicole was dead.

Yet to the outside world, it appeared Nicole was still alive. Prosecutors say Thompson took over her identity, posing as Nicole for nearly a decade to commit fraud and live undetected.

Nicole Alston's remains were found in a burning bag in 2007

11Alive

Authorities allege Thompson used Nicole’s identity to collect nearly $139,000 in government benefits, as well as to lease apartments, purchase cars, and access financial services. She was even arrested and sued under Nicole’s name.

This deception reportedly continued until 2015, when the Social Security Administration attempted to requalify Nicole for benefits and uncovered irregularities. After that, Thompson returned to using her real name.

In August 2023, she was charged with concealing Nicole’s death and with years of identity fraud. However, it was the DNA match to the remains found in 2007 that finally linked her to the murder.

Furthermore, the act of murder adds another disturbing layer to this case. Research in the field of forensic psychology has long established a link between violent crime and certain psychological disorders. A study published in the Journal of Forensic Psychiatry & Psychology, for instance, found a significant association between violent crime and antisocial personality disorder. While it's important not to diagnose without a full psychological assessment, this research could provide some insight into the mindset of the accused in this case.

Angel Thompson has been charged with murder

11Alive

Fulton County District Attorney Fani Willis called the case “one of the most gruesome” she has encountered in nearly three decades as a prosecutor.

“This case involves what are just horrific facts. When they found [Alston’s] body, it was cut. They found 13 pieces of her body,” Willis said at a press conference.

Troup County investigator Clay Bryant described the crime as the work of a “true sociopath.”

“It’s astounding that she was able to do what she did for how long she did it,” Bryant said. “I’ve never seen something so calculated and so meticulous before, but she did it very well, and I believe did it alone.”

She is also accused of stealing her alleged victim's identity for eight years

11Alive

Understanding the Psychology

Identity theft is not just a criminal act, but also a complex psychological behavior. It's rooted in the desire to assume a new identity, often driven by financial gain or a need to escape from one's own life. This case exemplifies the extreme lengths some individuals will go to in adopting an entirely new identity. A study by Holtfreter, Reisig, and Pratt (2008) suggests that identity thieves often have a history of engaging in deceitful behaviors, which aligns with the accused's actions in this case.

For Nicole’s mother Sylvia, the discovery brought painful closure to years of uncertainty.

“She didn’t deserve this, and I wish I’d never let her come to Georgia,” Sylvia said. “Nicole was bubbly. She had a smile that was infectious. She was happy, and through all of her trials and struggles, she always made everything seem OK. She was always the one people called on to talk to. I never stopped looking for her.”

Investigators allege that on the night of Nicole’s murder, Thompson was active on dating websites. Within weeks, she allegedly tried to rent out their apartment and sell their car.

Now being held without bond at Fulton County Jail, Thompson faces charges of murder, fraud, concealing a death, and potentially human trafficking and domestic violence. District Attorney Willis has stated her office expects to present a full indictment by the end of October.

Authorities are also investigating whether Thompson may have other victims and are urging anyone with information to come forward.

What Research Shows

This case also highlights the importance of DNA technology in solving cold cases. As per Nature, DNA breakthroughs have played a crucial role in identifying suspects in numerous cold cases. This scientific advancement, combined with the understanding of human behavior from a psychological perspective, can significantly aid in criminal investigations. It's a testament to the interplay between science and psychology in our justice system.

Analysis & Alternative Approaches

In conclusion, this case underscores the intricate relationships between identity theft, violent crime, and psychological disorders. The accused's alleged actions speak to deeper psychological issues that extend beyond simple criminal behavior. As Dr. Steven Pinker, a cognitive scientist, notes, "Human behavior is influenced by a complex interplay of genetics, environment, and individual choices," which highlights the multifaceted nature of such extreme actions. By examining this case through the lens of psychological research, we can better understand the motivations behind these behaviors. However, it's important to remember that these are complex issues, and individual behavior can't be fully explained or predicted by any single psychological theory or research study (Dr. Steven Pinker).