Alleged ‘Shopping Cart Killer’ nears his trial date; insanity plea refused

HARRISONBURG, Va. (WHSV) – After a motion made in Oct. 2022 to perform a psychological exam on Anthony Robinson — the alleged “Shopping Cart Killer” — Robinson’s defense team has forgone its ability to use the insanity plea.

In Nov. 2021, Harrisonburg police found 39-year-old Tonita Lorice Smith of Charlottesville and 54-year-old Allene Elizabeth dead in an undeveloped lot near Linda Lane. Investigators said the two deaths occurred at separate times, but the bodies were disposed of near each other.

According to Virginia law, a defense must provide notice for an insanity plea at least 30 days before the trial. Robinson is expected to start his trial Sept. 23, missing the deadline to plead insanity.

In court documents, several motions were made to include evidence and object to the use of evidence during the trial. The Commonwealth’s Attorney and Robinson’s defense will argue the use of data from online websites, among other sources, Sept. 3.

Robinson is charged with:

• Two counts of first-degree murder
• Two counts of concealing a dead body
• One count of aggravated murder

If convicted, Robinson could face multiple life sentences for the crimes.

In other motions filed by the defense, Robinson and his legal team asked to remove the “Shopping Cart Killer” nickname given to him throughout the rest of the legal process.

Robinson was given the nickname “Shopping Cart Killer” because investigators claim he disposed of some of the bodies using shopping carts.

This is a developing story. We will keep you updated on air and online with the latest details.

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