Dino Guilmette has become a name that sparks curiosity across Rhode Island and beyond. His story weaves together amateur boxing, reality television, and a high-stakes criminal case that has captured public attention. In 2026, Guilmette finds himself at the center of a legal battle that could change his life forever.
Dino Guilmette: Quick Bio
| Category | Details |
| Full Name | Dino Joseph Guilmette |
| Date of Birth | August 11, 1978 |
| Age (2026) | 47 years old |
| Birthplace | Cranston, Rhode Island, USA |
| Nationality | American |
| Ethnicity | White / Italian-American heritage |
| Height | 5’10” (178 cm) |
| Weight | 154 lbs (70 kg) |
| Hair Color | Dark Brown |
| Eye Color | Hazel |
| Father | William Guilmette Jr |
| Mother | Donna Guilmette |
| Siblings | Eight siblings |
| Education | MBA in Finance, University of Rhode Island (2000) |
| Profession | Former amateur boxer, Entrepreneur, Bar Owner |
| Boxing Name | “The Ghost” |
| Relationship Status | Partnered (Dating Shayanna Jenkins-Hernandez) |
| Children | Mia (from previous relationship), Giselle (with Shayanna Jenkins, born June 2018), Step-daughter Avielle Janelle Hernandez |
| Known For | Relationship with Shayanna Jenkins, Connection to Aaron Hernandez, Appearances on “The Real Housewives of Rhode Island,” Rejected Plea Deal in 2026 |
| Residence | Cranston, Rhode Island, USA |
Who is Dino Guilmette?
Dino Guilmette is a Rhode Island native, former amateur boxer, and businessman who gained public attention through his relationship with Shayanna Jenkins and appearances on reality television. He was born on August 11, 1978, in Cranston, Rhode Island, to parents William and Donna Guilmette . Now 47 years old, he has spent most of his life in the Ocean State, building a career that spans athletics, entrepreneurship, and unexpected media attention.
His public identity has been shaped less by his own pursuit of fame and more by circumstances that placed him under national scrutiny . Guilmette holds an MBA in Finance from the University of Rhode Island, demonstrating a commitment to education alongside his athletic pursuits . While he once trained at Providence’s Balletto Gym and entered local boxing events, he never turned professional . His life took an unexpected turn when his relationship with Shayanna Jenkins, the former fiancée of NFL player Aaron Hernandez, thrust him into the national spotlight.
Early Life and Background
Growing Up in Rhode Island
Dino Guilmette was born and raised in Cranston, Rhode Island, where he continues to reside today . His parents, William and Donna Guilmette, played a significant role in his upbringing, with his father teaching him the value of hard work and discipline . The local culture of Rhode Island has remained a constant throughout his adult life, grounding him even as media attention intensified.
His geographical loyalty to Rhode Island has been unwavering, even as his personal life attracted national headlines. This regional grounding later became significant as local media outlets began covering legal matters connected to his name . His early years remained largely private, suggesting he lived outside national attention for most of his young adulthood.
Family and Personal Background
Guilmette comes from a family that has supported him through various life transitions. His father, William, once publicly expressed admiration for Shayanna Jenkins, calling her a “lovely young lady” and saying he adored her . The elder Guilmette’s support for his son’s relationship showed the family’s welcoming attitude toward Jenkins and her daughter.
The Guilmette family has emphasized moving forward from past controversies while maintaining strong family bonds. Bill Guilmette acknowledged the challenges surrounding Aaron Hernandez’s history but expressed empathy, noting that Hernandez’s father’s death may have contributed to his downward spiral . This family support system has been a constant presence throughout Dino’s journey.
Dino Guilmette’s Career and Boxing Background
His Experience in Amateur Boxing
Dino Guilmette trained at the Providence Balletto Gym and entered local boxing events throughout his athletic career . Despite his dedication to the sport, he never became a professional boxer, though he did briefly sign on for a small Rhode Island ‘Brawl for All’ bout . Amateur boxing often exists at the community level, involving local gyms and regional competitions rather than televised bouts and championship belts.
Boxing appears to have been a serious interest and part of his identity, but not a pathway to national sports fame . His athletic pursuits contributed to a narrative of toughness and physicality that media outlets sometimes emphasize. The discipline he learned in the ring may have shaped his approach to business and personal challenges later in life.
Business Career and Professional Life
Beyond boxing, Guilmette has been described as an entrepreneur with involvement in bar ownership and other local business ventures in Rhode Island . His LinkedIn profile shows he attended the University of Rhode Island and graduated with a Master’s of Business Administration in Finance in 2000 . This educational background suggests he possessed ambition beyond athletic competition.
Small business ownership is common in local economies and rarely draws national attention. In Guilmette’s case, these activities only became part of public curiosity after his name was linked to higher-profile stories . Some reports indicate he has owned and operated bars in Providence, though detailed public records about his businesses remain limited . His entrepreneurial efforts have been overshadowed by his legal troubles and personal connections.
Dino Guilmette’s Relationship With Shayanna Jenkins
How Dino Guilmette and Shayanna Jenkins Met
Dino Guilmette began dating Shayanna Jenkins in 2017, following the death of her former fiancé, Aaron Hernandez . They were introduced through mutual friends, and their relationship grew steadily away from the spotlight. Guilmette told reporters he met Jenkins about a year before their daughter’s birth and that they “just hit it off from the beginning”.
When asked whether Hernandez was an issue at the beginning of their relationship, Guilmette stated, “I didn’t care one bit.” He acknowledged Hernandez had demons but emphasized the former NFL player’s devotion to his daughter . The age difference between Guilmette and Jenkins, approximately 11 years, has occasionally been noted in media coverage though it has not appeared significant to their relationship .
Their Children and Family Life
Guilmette and Jenkins welcomed their daughter, Giselle Guilmette, on June 16, 2018, in Rhode Island . The birth came just over a year after Aaron Hernandez’s death in prison in April 2017. Guilmette also has another daughter, Mia, from a previous relationship, and has embraced his role as stepfather to Avielle Janelle Hernandez, Shayanna’s daughter with Aaron, born November 6, 2012.
Guilmette has been described as a devoted father who takes his parental responsibilities seriously. He treats all three girls as part of one family unit, with sources indicating the sisters share close relationships . His approach to fatherhood prioritizes privacy and normalcy for his children, keeping them largely out of the public eye despite media attention surrounding his relationship with Jenkins . His protective stance reflects his broader preference for maintaining boundaries between his personal life and public scrutiny.
Dino Guilmette’s Connection to Aaron Hernandez
Dino Guilmette’s most significant connection to Aaron Hernandez comes through his relationship with Shayanna Jenkins, who was Hernandez’s fiancée at the time of his death . Guilmette is the father of Jenkins’ second child, Giselle, born in June 2018 . Reports have suggested, though not verified, that Guilmette played college football with Hernandez at the University of Florida.
Guilmette has expressed empathy toward Hernandez, acknowledging his struggles while emphasizing his love for his daughter. When discussing his upcoming daughter, Guilmette told media that Hernandez would be happy to know Avielle was going to have a little sister . This connection to one of the most discussed true-crime stories in American sports history ensured that searches for Guilmette’s name would continue for years.
Guilmette’s relationship with Jenkins brought him into the public eye in a way his business ventures never would have. Yet even under that spotlight, he has maintained boundaries, protecting his privacy and that of his children while navigating complex personal and legal challenges.
Dino Guilmette and the Real Housewives of Rhode Island
Dino Guilmette appeared on the first season of “The Real Housewives of Rhode Island” at a house party hosted by Liz McGraw and her husband Gerry . On the show, Liz McGraw described Guilmette as a very close friend whom she has known for years . He was mentioned numerous times throughout the season and recently made an appearance in Rhode Island Superior Court that drew additional attention.
Guilmette’s connection to the McGraws has become a significant storyline. Both Liz and Gerry McGraw are listed as associates of Guilmette in a 2021 affidavit from state police Detective Matthew Lynch, who was attempting to secure a permit to wiretap Guilmette’s phone . Court documents from a separate investigation suggest Guilmette has ties to the McGraws, who own Slater Compassion Center, a retail cannabis store in Providence.
Liz McGraw is not returning for the show’s second season, yet her connection to Guilmette continues to attract ongoing attention . When reached by The Providence Journal, Guilmette confirmed he is friends with the McGraws . His appearances on the reality show have thrust his legal troubles into the public eye.
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What Is Known About Dino Guilmette Today?
As of 2026, Dino Guilmette is facing the most serious challenge of his life. On June 25, 2026, he appeared in Rhode Island Superior Court and rejected a plea deal that would have allowed him to avoid jail time . The state’s final offer would have seen him plead guilty to counts of delivery and conspiracy to delivery of Lorazepam. In exchange, the other six charges would have been dropped, and he would have received five years of probation.
Guilmette faces seven felony charges and one misdemeanor, ranging from drug dealing to fraudulently obtaining COVID-19 relief money to conspiracy . If found guilty of all counts at trial, he faces a maximum sentence of 88 years in prison . Defense attorney John L. Calcagni III said his client turned down the offer because he maintains his innocence.
The case has been dragging on for years, with Guilmette charged in March 2022 . His lawyer blamed the delay on the Rhode Island Attorney General’s Office, while the prosecution pushed back, saying the case was delayed because of hearings, motions, and requests for continuances by both sides . Guilmette is expected back in court for further proceedings, with his trial not expected to take place for several months.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is Dino Guilmette?
Dino Guilmette is a Rhode Island native, former amateur boxer, and businessman who gained public attention through his relationship with Shayanna Jenkins and appearances on “The Real Housewives of Rhode Island.” He is currently facing multiple felony charges in Rhode Island Superior Court after rejecting a plea deal in June 2026.
What is Dino Guilmette known for?
He is known for his relationship with Shayanna Jenkins, his connection to the late Aaron Hernandez, appearances on “The Real Housewives of Rhode Island,” and his ongoing criminal case. He is also recognized as a former amateur boxer and entrepreneur with an MBA in Finance from the University of Rhode Island.
Does Dino Guilmette have children?
Yes, Dino Guilmette has three daughters. He has a daughter named Mia from a previous relationship, a daughter named Giselle with Shayanna Jenkins born on June 15, 2018, and a stepdaughter named Avielle Janelle Hernandez, who is Shayanna’s daughter with Aaron Hernandez.
Who is Dino Guilmette’s partner?
Dino Guilmette’s partner is Shayanna Jenkins, the former fiancée of Aaron Hernandez. They have been in a relationship since 2017, though their official marital status remains unclear to the public.
What is Dino Guilmette’s connection to Aaron Hernandez?
Dino Guilmette is connected to Aaron Hernandez through his relationship with Shayanna Jenkins, who was Hernandez’s fiancée at the time of his death. He is the father of Jenkins’ second child, Giselle, and stepfather to Hernandez’s daughter Avielle. It has been reported, though unverified, that Guilmette played college football with Hernandez at the University of Florida.
What charges is Dino Guilmette facing in 2026?
Guilmette faces seven felony charges and one misdemeanor, ranging from drug dealing to fraudulently obtaining COVID-19 relief money to conspiracy. If found guilty on all counts at trial, he faces a maximum sentence of 88 years in prison.
Why did Dino Guilmette reject the plea deal?
Guilmette rejected the plea deal because he maintains his innocence, according to his defense attorney John L. Calcagni III. The state’s final offer would have allowed him to plead guilty to just two counts and receive five years of probation, but Guilmette chose to take his chances at trial instead.
Is Dino Guilmette on “The Real Housewives of Rhode Island”?
Yes, Dino Guilmette appeared on the first season of “The Real Housewives of Rhode Island” at a house party hosted by his close friends Liz and Gerry McGraw. He was mentioned numerous times throughout the season, and his connection to the McGraws has become a significant storyline on the show.
Where is Dino Guilmette now?
As of August 2026, Dino Guilmette is out on bail while awaiting trial in Rhode Island Superior Court. His trial is not expected to take place for several months, and he is scheduled to appear back in court for further proceedings.
Conclusion
Dino Guilmette’s story is one of a man whose life became public through relationships and circumstances rather than personal ambition . From his roots in Cranston, Rhode Island, to his days in amateur boxing and entrepreneurship, he remained largely unknown until his connection to the Aaron Hernandez tragedy brought national attention. His appearances on reality television and his ongoing criminal case have kept him in the public eye.
Today, Guilmette faces a critical moment that will define his future. His rejection of a plea deal shows his determination to fight the charges against him, even at the risk of an 88-year sentence . His defense attorney has aggressively challenged police investigative methods, accusing detectives of providing false information and seeking to suppress wiretap evidence . The coming months will determine whether Guilmette’s life takes another unexpected turn or whether he faces the consequences of the allegations against him. For now, Dino Guilmette remains a figure of considerable public interest and legal uncertainty.
