Killer Psyche John Thomas Sweeney & the Murder of Dominique Dunne
Jan 20, 2026
Dive into the chilling case of John Thomas Sweeney and the tragic murder of actress Dominique Dunne. Explore the disturbing dynamics of their relationship, marked by obsession and escalating violence. Learn how Sweeney's troubled childhood contributed to his behavior and the danger signs that were tragically overlooked. The podcast sheds light on the failures of the justice system in handling domestic violence cases. It's a gripping narrative that catalyzed a national conversation about accountability and victim protection.
AI Snips
Chapters
Transcript
Episode notes
Final Night Rehearsal Turned Fatal
- Dominique Dunne rehearsed lines at home for V before John Sweeney forced his way into her life that night.
- Sweeney choked her for three to six minutes, leaving catastrophic brain damage and death days later.
Violence Learned At Home Explains Later Crimes
- Childhood exposure to domestic violence taught Sweeney that domination and choking solved relationship conflict.
- Candice DeLong links this intergenerational transmission to his later lethal behavior.
Make A Safety Plan Before Leaving
- Do prepare an escape and safety plan before leaving a narcissistic or coercively controlling partner.
- Include legal, digital, and physical steps because the post-breakup period is the most dangerous.