Two Women Charged In Norfolk Teen's Death

Two women have been arrested in connection with the September death of 17-year-old Asia Cowell of Norfolk. Cowell's body was found September 23, two weeks after she went missing on September 7. A police homicide investigation led to charges against two women.

Crystal Ashley Rudy Albritton, 30, was arrested by Newport News Police on Wednesday (December 2) and faces multiple charges, including First Degree Murder, Abduction by Force, Use of a Firearm in the commission of a Felony, Criminal Solicitation, and Conspiracy to Commit Felony.

Police have issued warrants against an 18-year-old woman, who faces the same charges as Albritton, but her identity has not been released since she was a juvenile at the time of Cowell's disappearance.

Newport News Police Chief Steve Drew thanked the multiple agencies that assisted in the investigation into Cowell's death as well as her family for their dedication to finding out what happened.

"I am proud of the work our detectives have done to bring some closure to Ms. Cowell's family," said Chief Drew. "They have worked tirelessly alongside Norfolk Police detectives to exhaust all leads and find those responsible."

Cowell's family issued a statement after learning of the charges against the two women.

"We are very pleased and overjoyed to hear the news regarding the arrest of several suspects in our dear Asia Cowell's case," her family said in the statement. "We would like to thank the diligent and hard-working law enforcement officials of the Newport News Police Department and the Norfolk Police Department."

They continued, "We would also like to thank the Hampton Roads community and beyond for all the prayers and outpouring of support we have received over the past several months. All of you are very much appreciated."

Photo: Newport News Police Department