The Netflix series Monsters: The Lyle and Erik Menendez Story has brought renewed attention to chilling true crime stories, and within its narrative, the tragic case of Dominique Dunne is revisited. Dunne, a rising star best known for her role in Poltergeist, was murdered in 1982 by her former boyfriend, John Thomas Sweeney. The series touches upon Sweeney’s trial and sentencing, prompting many to ask: Where is John Thomas Sweeney now?
This article delves into the life and untimely death of Dominique Dunne, the events leading up to her murder by John Thomas Sweeney, the controversial trial that followed, and what became of Sweeney after his release from prison.
The Promising Life of Dominique Dunne Cut Short
Dominique Dunne in her role as Dana Freeling in the iconic horror film Poltergeist.
Dominique Dunne was a young actress with a bright future ahead of her. At just 22 years old, she had already made a mark in Hollywood, most notably for her role as Dana Freeling, the eldest daughter in the classic horror film Poltergeist, released in 1982. Her career began in 1979 with Diary of a Teenage Hitchhiker, and she quickly garnered attention for her talent and on-screen presence.
However, just months after the release of Poltergeist, Dunne’s life was tragically cut short. The perpetrator was John Thomas Sweeney, her former boyfriend. Sweeney and Dunne’s relationship began in 1981 when they met at Ma Maison, a restaurant where Sweeney worked. Their relationship progressed rapidly, and they moved in together within a couple of months. However, the relationship soon turned turbulent. Dunne confided in her parents about frequent arguments and Sweeney’s violent temper, which reportedly included breaking furniture during fits of rage.
Escalating Violence and the Days Leading to Tragedy
The abuse escalated quickly. In one particularly disturbing incident, just a month before her death, John Thomas Sweeney choked Dominique Dunne, leaving her with injuries so severe that they were reportedly used for her makeup in a role where she played a battered woman. Sweeney’s violence was also manifested in other ways, including an incident where he pulled out clumps of Dunne’s hair during an argument.
On October 30, 1982, John Thomas Sweeney arrived at Dunne’s home in a fit of anger. Dominique was rehearsing with fellow actor David Packer at the time. Dunne went outside to speak with Sweeney, and Packer recounted hearing a scream followed by a loud thud. Packer immediately called the police. Upon their arrival, Sweeney reportedly confessed, “I killed my girlfriend and I tried to kill myself.”
It was determined that John Thomas Sweeney had strangled Dominique Dunne for approximately six minutes. She was rushed to the hospital and placed in a coma, but tragically, her life support was removed six days later.
The Trial and Controversial Sentence of John Thomas Sweeney
The trial of John Thomas Sweeney was highly publicized and controversial. Despite the severity of the crime, the judge controversially removed first-degree murder as a possible charge. Ultimately, John Thomas Sweeney was found guilty of manslaughter and received a sentence of only six years in prison.
Adding to the outrage, crucial testimony from a previous girlfriend of Sweeney, detailing his history of violence against her, was not permitted in court. The jury foreman later stated that had this evidence been presented, they likely would have convicted Sweeney of murder. The perceived leniency of the sentence sparked public outcry and fueled the perception of injustice in the case.
Where is John Thomas Sweeney Now?
A still image of John Thomas Sweeney from a YouTube true crime investigation documentary about the murder of Dominique Dunne.
John Thomas Sweeney was released from prison in September 1986, after serving a mere three years and seven months for Dominique Dunne’s death. Following his release, he returned to the culinary industry, the same field he was in before the murder. He even became head chef at The Chronicle, a restaurant in Santa Monica.
In a chilling interview with the LA Times in 1987, John Thomas Sweeney himself acknowledged the brevity of his sentence, stating, “I did not do all that much time, considering the crime.” This statement further fueled public anger and highlighted the perceived inadequacy of the justice system in this case.
A disturbing incident surfaced again in 1994 when Dominique Dunne’s father, Dominick Dunne, received a call from a doctor. The doctor, who had read about the Dunne case, revealed that his daughter was engaged to John Thomas Sweeney and sought Dominick’s opinion on whether she would be safe. Dominick Dunne’s reported response was a furious, “Doctor, are you out of your f*cking mind?”
Following Dominick Dunne’s intervention and contact from Dominique’s brother, Griffin Dunne, the engagement was reportedly broken off. Sweeney then allegedly accused Griffin Dunne of harassment for warning the doctor’s daughter about his past.
Since this incident in the 90s, there is limited publicly available information about John Thomas Sweeney’s whereabouts or current life. The lack of information leaves a lingering sense of unease, especially considering the gravity of his crime and the short time he served. The tragic story of Dominique Dunne serves as a stark reminder of the devastating consequences of domestic violence and the enduring pain inflicted on victims and their families.
