Fifty-year-old Dean Penney was arrested by RCMP NL on Friday, December 15, 2023 and charged with first degree murder in the death of his estranged wife, Jennifer Hillier-Penney. In a news conference held today at RCMP NL Headquarters, Inspector Tracy Edwards, Officer in Charge of Investigative Support Services, provided the update on the investigation, which was launched after Hillier-Penney disappeared from St. Anthony on November 30, 2016.
"Seven years of investigative diligence have brought us to this point," said Inspector Edwards. "From the beginning, our goal has been to get answers for Jennifer's loved ones and to bring anyone responsible for her disappearance to justice. I commend the RCMP NL Major Crime Unit, which led this investigation, and the St. Anthony Detachment for its support. On behalf of the RCMP, I extend deepest condolences to Jennifer's family and friends."
The remains of Jennifer Hillier-Penney have not yet been found and investigators continue to follow all leads related to the possible location of her remains.
Dean Penney appeared in court today and has been remanded into custody.
Inspector Edwards spoke to the length of time that has passed since the disappearance of Hillier-Penney.
"We acknowledge that seven years is a long time to go without answers," said Inspector Edwards. "The anguish felt by Jennifer's loved ones and the community was always top of mind as we worked our way through a complex investigation that began with ruling out all reasonable explanations for Jennifer's disappearance and then moving to identifying the person(s) criminally responsible. These investigations take time, cannot be rushed and must be pursued with diligence and a commitment to investigative excellence."
This significant update comes, coincidentally, just after the conclusion of the 16 Days of Activism Against Gender Based Violence. This type of violence can take many forms – physical, sexual, emotional and psychological. It knows no social, economic or geographical boundaries. The RCMP encourages anyone who feels unsafe or uncertain about their safety to reach out to police and/or community organizations for support and assistance. In Newfoundland and Labrador, there is a province-wide Domestic Violence Help Line, 1-888-709-7090, which is also text enabled. Callers can access assistance and connection with services in their area.