What do you think?
Rate this book
Deadly Goals: The True Story of an All-American Football Hero Who Stalked and Murdered
The story of a small town football hero whose obsession and steroid rage led to murder is revealed in "this fine true-crime tale" (Publishers Weekly).
A star athlete with a winning smile, Pernell Jefferson had no trouble attracting women. But his charming exterior belied his brutally violent tendencies. After walking away from a football career with the Cleveland Browns, he was addicted to steroids and nearly destitute. That's when he set his sights on Regina Butkowski.
Pernell obsessively called and showed up to her home unannounced—and he battered her when she turned her attention toward other men. When Regina disappeared, the Butkowski family knew who was responsible. But even after police discovered Regina's charred remains in a small Virginia town, they refused to question the man most likely linked to the brutal crime.
In Deadly Goals, veteran author Wilt Browning explores the devastating details of Pernell Jefferson's past, the disturbing nature of his crimes, and the Butkowski family's pleas for justice that led to his arrest.
Deadly Goals was previously published under the title Where the Wildflowers Grow.
A star athlete with a winning smile, Pernell Jefferson had no trouble attracting women. But his charming exterior belied his brutally violent tendencies. After walking away from a football career with the Cleveland Browns, he was addicted to steroids and nearly destitute. That's when he set his sights on Regina Butkowski.
Pernell obsessively called and showed up to her home unannounced—and he battered her when she turned her attention toward other men. When Regina disappeared, the Butkowski family knew who was responsible. But even after police discovered Regina's charred remains in a small Virginia town, they refused to question the man most likely linked to the brutal crime.
In Deadly Goals, veteran author Wilt Browning explores the devastating details of Pernell Jefferson's past, the disturbing nature of his crimes, and the Butkowski family's pleas for justice that led to his arrest.
Deadly Goals was previously published under the title Where the Wildflowers Grow.
336 pages, Kindle Edition
First published July 1, 1995
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 28 of 28 reviews
Read
January 10, 2023If I were still rating my true crime reads this would be five stars. It’s the first I’ve ever read that dealt with stalking as a realistic problem not just some unfortunate event. Fear pored from the pages. I really don’t like writing about parts of the book in my reviews ie: subplots and such. I’m sure the synopsis can give you enough of an idea of what occurs. Just know stalking is more than an issue; it is a nightmare.
July 12, 2018
Just Another Low-Life Abuser
This book begins with an intriguing statement by Pernell Jefferson about anabolic steroid use and abuse and how he has come to realize what a monster steroids had made of him.
Don't believe a word of it.
I was looking forward to an indepth, breakthrough personal account of how Jefferson''s abuse of these products lead him down a dark and twisting path culminating in violence and murder.
Nope. Pernell Jefferson is nothing more than a vile and common domestic abuser who had more than a little help from his friends-- star struck cops who have enough misogyny to match Jefferson and raise him.
Two of Jefferson's victims called and visited police, one with both her parents, to no avail.
And if any one out there thinks misogyny does not still exist in our police forces- you've got another think coming.
Carrie Butkowski, Jeannie Butkowski's mother put her grief to work, becoming active in three separate victim groups. And that's what it's going to take. Because most of the time, you're fighting a boy's club that think rape and beatings is merely "play-acting" on the woman's part. Funny when she winds up dead. Suddenly, everything changes.
Pernell had nothing but charm and anger. But, boy, could be get those cops to fall in line.
Sadly, women, too.
As for his anabolic sob story...BS. He was slapping women around before he ever shoved a needle into his fatty tissue.
The book is a quick read, delivering the basic facts, and giving good insight into the person Pernell.
If you are a lover of true crime, I would recommend.
As for you cops out there, especially you leaders: Up your damn game. This read casts a despicable light on your interactions with women who have been abused, with your willingness to believe your brothers, especially if, God forbid they are athletes, and this is not just a problem in the South.
Ladies: If it effing hurts it is not love.
Join up. Run for office. Join the police force. This doesn't stop until we stop it. Because the brothers are not going to stop it for us.
Ever.
This book begins with an intriguing statement by Pernell Jefferson about anabolic steroid use and abuse and how he has come to realize what a monster steroids had made of him.
Don't believe a word of it.
I was looking forward to an indepth, breakthrough personal account of how Jefferson''s abuse of these products lead him down a dark and twisting path culminating in violence and murder.
Nope. Pernell Jefferson is nothing more than a vile and common domestic abuser who had more than a little help from his friends-- star struck cops who have enough misogyny to match Jefferson and raise him.
Two of Jefferson's victims called and visited police, one with both her parents, to no avail.
And if any one out there thinks misogyny does not still exist in our police forces- you've got another think coming.
Carrie Butkowski, Jeannie Butkowski's mother put her grief to work, becoming active in three separate victim groups. And that's what it's going to take. Because most of the time, you're fighting a boy's club that think rape and beatings is merely "play-acting" on the woman's part. Funny when she winds up dead. Suddenly, everything changes.
Pernell had nothing but charm and anger. But, boy, could be get those cops to fall in line.
Sadly, women, too.
As for his anabolic sob story...BS. He was slapping women around before he ever shoved a needle into his fatty tissue.
The book is a quick read, delivering the basic facts, and giving good insight into the person Pernell.
If you are a lover of true crime, I would recommend.
As for you cops out there, especially you leaders: Up your damn game. This read casts a despicable light on your interactions with women who have been abused, with your willingness to believe your brothers, especially if, God forbid they are athletes, and this is not just a problem in the South.
Ladies: If it effing hurts it is not love.
Join up. Run for office. Join the police force. This doesn't stop until we stop it. Because the brothers are not going to stop it for us.
Ever.
July 22, 2018
Still denied being a killer in the end!
If you're going to write a book about your life and tell all the horrific details about it, then be a real man and admit you are a murderer. You are not truly sorry if you can't give the family the truth. You are a selfish narcissist manipulative lying monster. I wish they would give you the needle.
If you're going to write a book about your life and tell all the horrific details about it, then be a real man and admit you are a murderer. You are not truly sorry if you can't give the family the truth. You are a selfish narcissist manipulative lying monster. I wish they would give you the needle.
November 7, 2026
I was sceptical when the introduction was written by the person who committed the crime: a serial domestic abuser, stalker, and murderer.
He admitted guilt, expressed ‘remorse’ (for the circumstances, not the crime) and simultaneously held his hands up declaring, “not my fault sir.” Wonder what the 2011 parole board thought of that. Did he tick the boxes? Did the author gain access to a manipulative criminal/ impressive college football hero and was spoonfed little half truths that made him sympathize with the perpetrator? I was outraged. His history of obsessive, abusive and controlling behaviour towards women dated back as far as high school, pre-steroid use.
However, the book itself was extremely well researched and presented. I was hooked by this case. The level of obsession and stalking was terrifying. The author portrayed him as the monster he truly was.
The introduction I now believe was the author allowing him space to display his absolute arrogance and narcissism. He believes he is the victim of circumstances. He expressed remorse for himself and the path he was led down, as if the crime was the perfect culmination of events (we now know that this was a far greater pattern) After reading the book, it does not make sense that the author put that introduction there to help the perpetrator absolve himself in any way. In that sense, the introduction is actually quite clever and revealing.
One thing I thought was outstanding was the way in which the author managed to bring the women’s stories to life, the difficulties they faced in the face of domestic violence and in trying to extract themselves from a violent, controlling man. It felt like such a hopeless situation and shone a light on how much courage and strength it takes, how at risk their lives are and how little resource are available to them.
I did fade a little towards the end of the trial as I felt ready for the case to be wrapped up.
He admitted guilt, expressed ‘remorse’ (for the circumstances, not the crime) and simultaneously held his hands up declaring, “not my fault sir.” Wonder what the 2011 parole board thought of that. Did he tick the boxes? Did the author gain access to a manipulative criminal/ impressive college football hero and was spoonfed little half truths that made him sympathize with the perpetrator? I was outraged. His history of obsessive, abusive and controlling behaviour towards women dated back as far as high school, pre-steroid use.
However, the book itself was extremely well researched and presented. I was hooked by this case. The level of obsession and stalking was terrifying. The author portrayed him as the monster he truly was.
The introduction I now believe was the author allowing him space to display his absolute arrogance and narcissism. He believes he is the victim of circumstances. He expressed remorse for himself and the path he was led down, as if the crime was the perfect culmination of events (we now know that this was a far greater pattern) After reading the book, it does not make sense that the author put that introduction there to help the perpetrator absolve himself in any way. In that sense, the introduction is actually quite clever and revealing.
One thing I thought was outstanding was the way in which the author managed to bring the women’s stories to life, the difficulties they faced in the face of domestic violence and in trying to extract themselves from a violent, controlling man. It felt like such a hopeless situation and shone a light on how much courage and strength it takes, how at risk their lives are and how little resource are available to them.
I did fade a little towards the end of the trial as I felt ready for the case to be wrapped up.
December 10, 2019
I'm very impressed with this author!!
I usually try to leave a review on books i read that really capture my interest in True Crime. I must say, this one was a doozy on sucking me into the story!! I started it around 3am this morning and just now finished it at 9:25on tonight. I did have several hours of away time,but it kept calling me to read more, lol.
Usually, I'm not a sports fan, but the premise of the book was definitely what caught my interest. Mr. Browning has done excellent research, if you would like to call it that. He definitely got to the crux of the story very early in and it's so interesting to follow the investigation backwards. It really is.
I'm looking forward to finding more of his books to read!!
Try it! You might be like me and get super sucked in! Fantastic read!!
I usually try to leave a review on books i read that really capture my interest in True Crime. I must say, this one was a doozy on sucking me into the story!! I started it around 3am this morning and just now finished it at 9:25on tonight. I did have several hours of away time,but it kept calling me to read more, lol.
Usually, I'm not a sports fan, but the premise of the book was definitely what caught my interest. Mr. Browning has done excellent research, if you would like to call it that. He definitely got to the crux of the story very early in and it's so interesting to follow the investigation backwards. It really is.
I'm looking forward to finding more of his books to read!!
Try it! You might be like me and get super sucked in! Fantastic read!!
February 23, 2024
Wonderful
I really enjoyed reading this book and yes I Highly recommend it especially to those who believe that not pressing charges or speaking about abuse and mind control its going to solve it. The Lying shit Parnell is a monster He stalked her and Killed her , his sorry apologies still blaming others including Regina what a loser I hope he never gets out.
I really enjoyed reading this book and yes I Highly recommend it especially to those who believe that not pressing charges or speaking about abuse and mind control its going to solve it. The Lying shit Parnell is a monster He stalked her and Killed her , his sorry apologies still blaming others including Regina what a loser I hope he never gets out.
May 25, 2025
So Much to Say About This
And most of what I would say they wouldn't allow, so I'll just say this: for the author, very well done! To all the cops involved in these cases up until Sheriff Weaver (fortunately) landed the case, you should be ashamed of your pathetic performances. I say that from experience you will never know. As for the POS who claims roid rage as his excuse for being a narcissistic, controlling, woman beater and killer, you're a pathetic waste of oxygen and I pray the end for you is near, unnatural, and painful. And for anyone that believes his BS, remember, he beat his high school girlfriend also, and that was before the steroids. To all fathers, never hesitate to protect your daughters at any cost to you, your freedom, or life -- that's your job!
And most of what I would say they wouldn't allow, so I'll just say this: for the author, very well done! To all the cops involved in these cases up until Sheriff Weaver (fortunately) landed the case, you should be ashamed of your pathetic performances. I say that from experience you will never know. As for the POS who claims roid rage as his excuse for being a narcissistic, controlling, woman beater and killer, you're a pathetic waste of oxygen and I pray the end for you is near, unnatural, and painful. And for anyone that believes his BS, remember, he beat his high school girlfriend also, and that was before the steroids. To all fathers, never hesitate to protect your daughters at any cost to you, your freedom, or life -- that's your job!
September 18, 2025
Heartfelt sadness for the families of both the victim and murderer.
I could not put this book down until the very end, Not satisfied with the sentence, but he has severed 25 years, I'm sure he's been paroled by now. Had our justice system worked he would have been taken off the streets long before he murdered Jeanie. Abused women need to stand up for themselves and NEVER back away from having an abuser prosecuted. Sad for all involved prior to and after the murder. May peace be with you.
I could not put this book down until the very end, Not satisfied with the sentence, but he has severed 25 years, I'm sure he's been paroled by now. Had our justice system worked he would have been taken off the streets long before he murdered Jeanie. Abused women need to stand up for themselves and NEVER back away from having an abuser prosecuted. Sad for all involved prior to and after the murder. May peace be with you.
July 16, 2024
True crime horror
Sadly thus case could have been avoided if the police had taken this disgusting man to prison when his previous girlfriend told them what he did to her. This book is so sad yet well written with good details and background information. My heart breaks for the family and friends if the beautiful victim. Good book to read if you like true crime but ur will break your heart and disgust you at the same time.
Sadly thus case could have been avoided if the police had taken this disgusting man to prison when his previous girlfriend told them what he did to her. This book is so sad yet well written with good details and background information. My heart breaks for the family and friends if the beautiful victim. Good book to read if you like true crime but ur will break your heart and disgust you at the same time.
July 29, 2019
First, this is a good read. Second, I kind of disturb by the racism in this book, including the victim father. And also by a stereotype that a white woman "showed him correct way to speak, showed him how to dress right". And the whole seen when Denise called Parnell and mimicking jive talk in 1990's is completely ignorant. The fact the author would even put that in a book is beyond belief.
August 8, 2018
Interesting book!
This book details the sad story of a young woman who got involved with the wrong person and ended up paying for that decision with her life. This story is truly a cautionary tale. I highly recommend this book to other true crime readers.
This book details the sad story of a young woman who got involved with the wrong person and ended up paying for that decision with her life. This story is truly a cautionary tale. I highly recommend this book to other true crime readers.
September 7, 2018
Amazing story
Started reading this book and could not put it down. I'm glad we have laws to stop these kinds of things now. Wish we did then. I agree with the mother in regards to that man stay in for life.
Started reading this book and could not put it down. I'm glad we have laws to stop these kinds of things now. Wish we did then. I agree with the mother in regards to that man stay in for life.
February 14, 2023
For true crime, this book by Browning is surprisingly well written, engaging, and of course tragic. Domestic abuse and the mental state of the victim are in focus as much as the violent, increasing exhibition of ruthless torture in the perp. A tragedy is so many ways. . .
May 13, 2023
Must read
This book was a fantastic read. A must read for people who want to see what happens to good people who abuse steroids and gain an understanding of roid rage. A devastating outcome however it is an eye opener on how bad it can get. A must read.
This book was a fantastic read. A must read for people who want to see what happens to good people who abuse steroids and gain an understanding of roid rage. A devastating outcome however it is an eye opener on how bad it can get. A must read.
June 9, 2025
awful
I couldn’t read this book at all. It’s true crime but written like it’s a fictional book. Waffles on and on completely off topic. This book could be 1/4 the length it is. Really awful
I couldn’t read this book at all. It’s true crime but written like it’s a fictional book. Waffles on and on completely off topic. This book could be 1/4 the length it is. Really awful
March 1, 2026
good true life story
It’s still fascinating to me that a man can wreck so much havoc on so many lives and only barely be convicted of one crime. Steroids or not Pernell is a danger to society. I hope he never is set free.
It’s still fascinating to me that a man can wreck so much havoc on so many lives and only barely be convicted of one crime. Steroids or not Pernell is a danger to society. I hope he never is set free.
October 17, 2026
Very Well Written
Detailed, gripping, considerate and well written. I truly enjoyed reading this book. I felt the families of all the victims pain and suffering and the anger at Pernell’s abuse
Detailed, gripping, considerate and well written. I truly enjoyed reading this book. I felt the families of all the victims pain and suffering and the anger at Pernell’s abuse
July 3, 2018
Great read
This book really let you know the victims and also the murderer. How a seemingly normal person could be such a monster
This book really let you know the victims and also the murderer. How a seemingly normal person could be such a monster
February 1, 2019
Great Read
Interesting book about a crime that took place. The author did a great job keeping the reader engaged. What a sad tale.
Interesting book about a crime that took place. The author did a great job keeping the reader engaged. What a sad tale.
June 13, 2019
Going in I didn't know that it was a local NC story and that someone I knew would be mentioned in the text. It's a very interesting story that mixes sports, true crime and sociology.
February 5, 2021
This was good because I know PJ and some of the others mentioned in the book.
September 13, 2022
A lot of info about his supposed football career that I didn't need to know about and a lot of making excuses for his behavior. I finished it but it was a little slow for me.
December 20, 2023
Read. Writing was superb.
March 20, 2024
I punted around 40% of the way thru because the author spent WAY too much time on shit I didn't care about, like specific football game performances.
Read
November 26, 2024i just read deadly goals it was very ,IT was was good i read twice ,
October 30, 2025
So many details
I think this story could have been told in a shorter, more interesting way, but I’m not into courtroom stories as much as the next man may be.
I think this story could have been told in a shorter, more interesting way, but I’m not into courtroom stories as much as the next man may be.
January 13, 2014
this was a good book. detailed and well written.
June 30, 2018
Interesting
Most this book was quite good. I did skip through a lot of the trial section. This man is EXACTLY where he needs to be.
Most this book was quite good. I did skip through a lot of the trial section. This man is EXACTLY where he needs to be.
Displaying 1 - 28 of 28 reviews