Podcast Summary: Small Town Murder Episode #567 - Till Murder Do Us Part - Lebanon, Maine Release Date: February 6, 2025 Hosts: James Petregallo & Jimmy Whisman

Introduction to the Episode

In episode #567 of Small Town Murder, hosts James Petregallo and Jimmy Whisman delve into the dark and tragic story of Steven Brown and his wife Debbie in Lebanon, Maine. Combining in-depth research with their signature comedic flair, the hosts unravel a case marked by domestic abuse, kidnapping, and murder, highlighting the complexities of small-town dynamics.

Setting the Stage: Lebanon, Maine

Lebanon, Maine, a small town established in 1767, serves as the backdrop for this harrowing tale. With a population of approximately 6,437, Lebanon is characterized by its limited amenities, including a single Dunkin' Donuts and a local pizza shop. The town's quiet and peaceful façade masks deeper societal issues, including higher-than-average unemployment rates and a predominantly white population.

James Petregallo:
"A lot of attractive feet in this place, apparently. Lebanon, Maine, our feet are the nicest jerk off to our feet."
[13:48]

The Protagonists: Steven and Debbie Brown

Debbie Smorella, born in 1963, met Steven Brown in Portsmouth, New Hampshire, in 1981. Their whirlwind romance led to marriage when Debbie was 18 and Steven was 19, shortly after Debbie became pregnant with their son, Steven Jr. Their relationship was tumultuous from the start, marked by Steven's volatile behavior and substance abuse.

Jimmy Whisman:
"He’s gonna turn back and leave me alone? That’s the answer."
[29:24]

James Petregallo:
"What's going on with this lady? She's fucking wackier than anybody else in the story at this point."
[97:27]

A History of Abuse and Instability

Steven's upbringing in Newfield, New York, was fraught with behavioral issues. Described by his mother as a "problem child," Steven's inability to adhere to rules and his aggressive tendencies set the stage for future conflicts. After an early discharge from the Marines due to disciplinary issues, Steven struggled to maintain stable employment, often relying on his family's fuel delivery business.

Debbie, on the other hand, worked multiple jobs to support the family and began to recognize the severity of Steven's abuse. Friends and coworkers noticed Debbie's deteriorating mental and physical health, underscoring the toxic environment at home.

James Petregallo:
"Well, why are they making weed smoking for basic bitches?"
[22:31]

The Catalytic Incident: March 1999

On Sunday, March 28, 1999, Debbie and her new boyfriend, Chris Brilliard, were staying at the Holiday Inn in Portsmouth, Maine. That night, Debbie noticed suspicious activity: armed individuals surveilling their rental car and attempting to lure her out. Shortly after, at approximately 12:57 AM, Debbie was forcibly taken from the motel by Steven Brown and his accomplice, Patricia Teeter.

Debbie's Account:
"He grabbed my ears and said, 'This is a promise, not a threat. If you leave me again with my kids, I'll kill you and the entire family.'"
[77:25]

James Petregallo:
"Steven Brown, to the press, agrees with their account of how it went down."
[157:25]

The Crime and Immediate Aftermath

Steven abducted Debbie, Patricia Teeter, and caused the deaths of Debbie's brother, Donald Wood Jr., and her boyfriend, Chris Brilliard. Utilizing a lead pipe, Steven fatally injured both men, subsequently burying them in the woods. The ordeal left Debbie traumatized, with her daughter Whitney witnessing the abduction and killings.

Jimmy Whisman:
"This is why you mind your own business. This is why you don't help people."
[106:54]

Debbie's Plea:
"Please, I ask you to put him away so he can do no more harm. I beg you not to be light with him. I'm still in fear of him."
[152:18]

Police Investigation and Trial Proceedings

The police swiftly responded to the 911 call made by Whitney Brown, leading to a manhunt across multiple states. Steven and Patricia were apprehended in New York, where Steven attempted a failed suicide by hanging, resulting in severe injuries but survival. During the trial, Debbie testified extensively about the abuse suffered at Steven's hands, while Patricia's defense centered on her manipulation and conditioning from her own abusive past.

James Petregallo:
"This is crazy fucking Los unhinged. So this is how small town murder shit goes."
[145:19]

Defense Attorney:
"I'm not asking the court to find if there was adequate provocation and render a verdict of manslaughter."
[147:13]

Sentencing and Legal Outcomes

Steven Brown pleaded guilty to federal kidnapping charges, attempting to mitigate the severity of his crimes. Despite his plea, the court found his actions premeditated, resulting in a sentence of 20 years in state prison and 29 years in federal prison, to be served concurrently.

Patricia Teeter also pleaded guilty, receiving a lighter sentence due to her role as an unwilling participant under Steven's coercion.

Prosecutor's Statement:
"His aim was to kidnap his wife, and he would have killed others if they had gotten in his way."
[148:19]

Judge's Ruling:
"There is absolutely no indication that this defendant acted out of fear, coercion, or dispute, distress."
[160:18]

Aftermath and Reflections

Debbie Brown, now divorced and a single mother, has dedicated herself to helping other abused women, sharing her story to prevent similar tragedies. Her daughter, Whitney, continues to grapple with the traumatic events she witnessed.

Steven Brown, despite multiple failed suicide attempts and severe injuries, remains incarcerated, serving his time in a federal facility in Jessup, Georgia. His early death in 2012 due to a successful suicide ends his chapter of violence but leaves lingering scars on those affected.

Debbie Brown:
"I lost my family, lost my kids, and he was starting to lose his material possessions. He just doesn't have control over himself anymore."
[175:13]

James Petregallo:
"That is wild. You're not going to get that all the time from different shows. That's some small town murder shit right there."
[173:52]

Conclusion

Till Murder Do Us Part serves as a stark reminder of the darkness that can lurk beneath the surface of small-town tranquility. Through meticulous storytelling and candid discussions, James and Jimmy shed light on the complexities of domestic abuse, the challenges of law enforcement, and the enduring impact on survivors. This episode not only recounts a tragic narrative but also underscores the importance of awareness and intervention in preventing such devastating acts.

Notable Quotes:

• Debbie Brown on Fear and Safety:
  "I'm still in fear of him. Please put him in a prison outside of the state so my kids and I won't have to worry about him no more."
  [152:18]

• James Petregallo on the Incident:
  "This is a ridiculous jailbreak. That is too messed up."
  [137:00]

• Jimmy Whisman on the Aftermath:
  "She's capable of being... a few times he said, 'I'm sure.'"
  [52:59]

• Prosecutor's Summary:
  "His aim was to kidnap his wife, and he would have killed others if they had gotten in his way."
  [148:19]

Additional Information

For more detailed insights and direct quotes, listeners are encouraged to subscribe to Small Town Murder on their preferred podcast platform and follow James and Jimmy on social media. Live shows and merchandise can be accessed via shutupandgivemurder.com.