Tonya Whipp’s boyfriend is the “sole suspect” in her murder

AUBURNDALE, Fla. – This month marks a year since anyone last saw or heard from Tonya Whipp.

New court documents filed by the state claim her boyfriend, Russell Carroll of Auburndale, is the only suspect and that investigators have “concluded that she is deceased.”

Auburndale police secured his home Friday and said they expected to search it beginning Saturday.

“The investigation has progressed to the point where the only suspect in the murder investigation is Russell Carroll,” the state wrote in its request to increase the bond amount and terms.

This comes after Carroll was arrested earlier this week after officials said he used her financial accounts on multiple occasions and funneled money to himself.

Court documents state that Carroll made cash withdrawals as early as June 29, 2023.

RELATED: Police: Boyfriend of missing woman Tonya Whipp arrested for stealing money

Currently, Carroll is being held on $35,000 bail on that charge, but prosecutors are seeking a higher amount “based on the defendant’s flight risk.”

Additionally, the state added, “The defendant is aware that he is the suspect in a murder investigation and has reason to flee.”

Carroll spoke to reporters in October and maintained his innocence.

“I have absolutely nothing to do with her disappearance,” he said.

Carroll was arrested in 2003 and convicted of attempted first-degree murder of an ex-girlfriend. Carroll served time in prison before being sent on probation. However, in 2013, he was found to have violated the terms of his probation.

He was released in January 2023. Whipp would disappear four months later.

RELATED: ‘They’re cowards’: Tonya Whipp’s family believes she’s dead as it marks one year since May’s disappearance

Next Friday, Tonya Whipp’s family and loved ones plan to hold a candlelight vigil in her honor at Auburndale Park to mark one year since her disappearance.

“Everyone loves Tonya,” said her older sister Donna Martin. “She would give you the shirt off her back. She’s a really good girl.”