West Wilson has spent most of this year under intense scrutiny over his relationship with Amanda Batula. But while Summer House fans have been focused on the controversy playing out on screen, West’s family has also been dealing with something far more devastating behind the scenes.
Earlier this year, tragedy struck when West’s step-grandmother, Gayle Sweeney, was killed in a shocking shooting. West’s cousin, Dakota Sweeney, was later charged in connection with her death.
Now, the legal battle has shifted after a judge approved an expanded request tied to Dakota’s mental health.
The Summer House star’s family member is accused of killing his grandmother
New court documents obtained by Us Weekly show Dakota’s attorney is seeking to expand a previously approved mental health evaluation. The request goes beyond determining whether Dakota understands the legal proceedings against him.
The updated filing also asks an examiner to weigh whether psychiatric treatment may be appropriate, regardless of whether Dakota is found fit for trial. Prosecutors reportedly did not object. A judge approved the amended motion.
Dakota, 28, was arrested in April 22 – the night before West filmed the Summer House reunion – and charged with first-degree murder and armed criminal action.
Authorities allege Dakota was with his grandparents when the shooting happened. Court records state his grandfather, Roger Sweeney, told investigators Dakota shot 75-year-old Gayle with a handgun “without warning.”
Police documents also pointed to an earlier argument inside the home. “According to [the] witness, earlier in the evening, Sweeney and [the] victim had been in a disagreement about Sweeney not assisting with chores around the residence,” the report stated.
Missouri authorities continue to treat the case as a homicide investigation. Officials also emphasized, “These charges are a mere accusation and not evidence of guilt. Evidence in support of these charges must be presented before a court of competent jurisdiction whose duty is to determine guilt or innocence.”
Dakota remains jailed without bond as the case moves forward. Gayle’s obituary remembered her as a deeply creative and kind person who spent years quilting, creating stained glass, and pursuing photography and visual art.
Summer House streams on Peacock and Hayu.
TELL US – WHAT ARE YOUR THOUGHTS ON THE LATEST UPDATE IN DAKOTA’S CASE?
