Two Charged for Hiding Death of Third in Open Relationship

Uncovering a Tragic and Disturbing Case of Abuse and Theft

A shocking case has come to light in Lakewood, Colorado, involving two individuals accused of serious crimes related to the death of a man they were allegedly involved with in a “three-way relationship.” James Agnew and Suzanne Agnew are now facing multiple charges, including abuse of a corpse, theft, and tampering with a deceased human body. The case revolves around the death of James “Jim” O’Neill, whose disappearance went unnoticed for years before being discovered by his family.

O’Neill was last heard from by his family in 2019, and it wasn’t until June of this year that his brother requested a welfare check at an address in Lakewood. According to police affidavits, O’Neill’s family had only received one phone call from him in 2021, which raised immediate concerns. When officers arrived at the residence on South Ammons Street, James Agnew met them and attempted to impersonate O’Neill, identifying himself as “James” and refusing any contact with O’Neill’s family.

As the investigation progressed, James Agnew changed his story multiple times. Initially, he claimed O’Neill had never lived at the residence, then later said he had lived there for a few months before moving out. Suzanne Agnew also repeated these statements, according to the affidavit. However, further inquiries revealed that O’Neill's bank account had been regularly used, with monthly Social Security deposits and recent transactions.

Police found evidence that both Agnews continued to collect O’Neill’s Social Security benefits even after his death, stealing over $17,000. Surveillance footage showed a man matching James Agnew’s description using O’Neill’s card at an ATM. Additionally, investigators obtained a recording of a phone call O’Neill made on December 3, 2023, where he expressed fear about his roommate threatening him.

The situation took a grim turn when, on July 3, 2025, police executed a warrant at the residence and detained James Agnew for an outstanding arrest warrant. Suzanne Agnew then informed officers that O’Neill’s body was inside the home. Detectives confirmed the presence of the body, leading to further questioning of both suspects.

During interviews, Suzanne described their long-term “intimate” three-way relationship with O’Neill. She claimed they had lived together for many years and that she was with O’Neill when he made the distressing phone call. She stated that the three had considered moving out due to James Agnew’s erratic behavior. According to her, O’Neill died unexpectedly, and while James Agnew suggested calling the police, Suzanne reportedly refused, stating she wasn’t ready to “give up” Jim.

Suzanne also mentioned that they covered O’Neill’s body with an air mattress a week after his death because some of her eight chihuahuas had started chewing on it. This revelation shocked investigators, highlighting the disturbing nature of the situation.

James Agnew, during his interview, admitted that O’Neill’s Social Security benefits were a factor in their decision not to report his death. He also speculated that drug use might have played a role in the night of O’Neill’s passing.

The legal process is ongoing, with Suzanne Agnew scheduled for a preliminary hearing on August 27, and James Agnew set for arraignment hearings on September 2 and September 29. As the case unfolds, it raises important questions about accountability, the handling of personal affairs, and the consequences of such actions.