Dover, New Hampshire – In the days leading up to the brutal 2017 murders of Christine Sullivan and Jenna Pellegrini, Dean Smoronk, Sullivan’s ex-girlfriend and business partner, sent disturbing texts threatening violence. The couple was in the process of ending their romantic relationship and illegal business partnership, leading to escalating confrontations.
Smoronk’s angry messages to Sullivan included threats such as, “I am going to cut you right to the bone because you’re a greedy, self-centered, piece of s***.” Tragically, Sullivan was beaten and stabbed multiple times, while Pellegrini suffered more than 40 stab wounds.
Despite his involvement in a drug trafficking operation with Sullivan, Smoronk was never charged in connection with the murders at his Farmington home on January 27, 2017. Instead, Sullivan’s friend Timothy Verrill is on trial for the second time, with jurors expected to begin deliberations soon.
During the trial, Verrill’s defense team presented evidence of the toxic relationship between Smoronk and Sullivan, highlighting the animosity and distrust that ultimately led to the tragic events. Text messages obtained from Smoronk’s phone reveal his deep-seated anger and hatred toward Sullivan, including wishes for her death and threats of violence.
The trial also shed light on the complex dynamics involving drug trafficking and suspicions of police involvement. Smoronk’s text to Verrill indicated a belief that Sullivan was planning to cooperate with law enforcement, further complicating an already tense situation. Witnesses testified to Verrill’s drug involvement and state of mind on the day of the murders, suggesting a state of paranoia and drug-induced behavior.
Additionally, the trial introduced new information regarding other potential suspects and DNA evidence analysis. Jennifer Sears, a DNA expert, testified about the DNA evidence found on the victims and excluded Verrill as a match. The presence of other male DNA raised questions about additional suspects, including Stephen Clough, who had close ties to law enforcement and potential motives.
The second trial for Verrill comes after a mistrial in 2019 due to withheld evidence, which included exculpatory information. The mishandling of evidence by investigators, including lead investigator Brian Strong, led to renewed scrutiny and questions surrounding the investigation process. Strong’s promotion following the errors raised concerns about accountability and transparency within law enforcement.
As the trial progresses, new details continue to emerge, painting a complex picture of the events leading to the tragic murders of Christine Sullivan and Jenna Pellegrini. The search for justice and closure remains ongoing, with the outcome of the trial holding significant implications for all involved parties.