He Met Her on an App. Then He Killed Her. The Monica White Story
The Dating App Killer: The Monica White Story — Everything You Need to Know
Important Note: This article covers a real-life criminal case involving a serial killer. Some details may be upsetting. Reader discretion is advised.
What Is This Movie About?
Imagine you’re a mom named Monica White. Your son just left for military school. You’re newly divorced and ready to focus on you for a change. You try a dating app, meet a charming guy named Anthony Robinson, and things move fast — like a whirlwind romance.
But then… things get weird. He acts strange. Your gut tells you something’s wrong. You break it off.
Later, you find out he wasn’t just a bad boyfriend — he was a serial killer.
That’s the true story behind The Dating App Killer: The Monica White Story, a dramatic film now streaming on Netflix.
Meet the Cast
| Actor | Role | You Might Know Them From |
|---|---|---|
| Lela Rochon | Monica White | Waiting to Exhale |
| Jarod Joseph | Anthony Robinson | The 100 |
| Shyinne Anastacio | Beverley | Listen Out for Love |
| Princess Davis | Tonita | Yellowjackets |
| Shanna Giannozio | Beth | Limetown |
| Trezzo Mahoro | Isaiah White (Monica’s son) | To All the Boys I’ve Loved Before |
| Katrina Reynolds | Laila | Family Law |
| Spencer Graham | Casey | — |
| Spencer Driver | Rayleigh | — |
Directed by: Elisabeth Röhm
(She also directed Husband, Father, Killer: The Alyssa Pladl Story for Netflix.)
Who Is the Real Monica White?
Monica White is a real person — not just a character. Here’s what happened:
- 2020: Monica meets Anthony Robinson on a dating app.
- They date for a few months.
- Early 2021: Monica ends things after Robinson behaves inappropriately toward her and her family.
- Later that year: Robinson is arrested for multiple murders.
Monica trusted her instincts — and that decision likely saved her life.
Is This Based on a True Story?
Yes. 100%.
The film is based on the crimes of Anthony Robinson, who became known as the "Shopping Cart Killer."
Why that name? Because he used shopping carts to move his victims’ bodies.
The Real Crimes: What Happened?
The Confirmed Murders (Convicted in 2025)
In November 2021, police in Harrisonburg, Virginia found the bodies of two women:
- Allene Elizabeth Redmon
- Tonita Smith
Both women had met Robinson on dating apps.
Evidence that led to his arrest:
- Surveillance footage
- Cellphone records linking him to both women
2025 Conviction: Robinson was found guilty on six counts:
- 2 counts of aggravated murder
- 2 counts of first-degree murder
- 2 counts of concealing a dead body
2026 Sentencing: Two life sentences + 10 years in prison.
His lawyers have said they will appeal.
Other Cases He’s Suspected In (Not Charged)
| Victim(s) | Year Found | Status |
|---|---|---|
| Cheyenne Brown & Stephanie Harrison | 2021 | Found together; police name Robinson as primary suspect |
| Sonya Champ | 2021 | Investigators examining potential involvement |
| Skye Allen (Robinson’s former fiancée) | 2018 | Death being re-examined |
Key Takeaway: Robinson used dating apps to meet victims. He targeted women he met online — making this a chilling reminder about online safety.
Why This Story Matters
This isn’t just a scary movie. It’s a real warning:
- Trust your gut. Monica felt something was off — she listened.
- Online dating has risks. Not everyone is who they say they are.
- Report suspicious behavior. It could save lives.
Summary
- The Dating App Killer: The Monica White Story is a Netflix drama based on true events.
- It follows Monica White (played by Lela Rochon), who narrowly escapes a relationship with Anthony Robinson — later revealed to be the "Shopping Cart Killer."
- Robinson was convicted in 2025 for two murders and sentenced to two life terms + 10 years.
- He is also the prime suspect in several other deaths.
- The film highlights the dangers of online dating and the importance of listening to your instincts.
FAQ
Is Monica White a real person?
Yes. Monica White is a real woman who dated Anthony Robinson in 2020–2021. She ended the relationship after noticing disturbing behavior — shortly before his arrest.
Why is Anthony Robinson called the "Shopping Cart Killer"?
Because he used shopping carts to transport his victims’ bodies. The nickname came from police and media coverage of the case.
How many people did he kill?
He was convicted for two murders (Allene Redmon and Tonita Smith).
Police suspect he may be responsible for up to four more deaths, including his former fiancée.
Where can I watch the movie?
On Netflix. Search for "The Dating App Killer: The Monica White Story."
Is the movie scary?
It’s a dramatic thriller based on real crimes — so yes, it’s intense. But it’s not a horror movie with jump scares. It’s a serious, emotional story about survival and justice.
Want more true crime?
Netflix has a whole lineup — from The Tinder Swindler to Murdaugh Murders. Just remember: truth is often stranger (and scarier) than fiction.
Stay safe. Trust your instincts. And always meet in public places.