Bio Mom and Stepfather Charged with First-Degree Murder and Torture
Cortney and Brad Bartholomew, the biological mother and stepfather of Rebecca Park, are facing severe legal consequences. Each has been charged with eight counts, including first-degree murder and torture. Their arraignment occurred recently in Wexford County’s 84th District Court, where both were held without bond.
Details of the Charges
Charges Against Brad Bartholomew
- Count 1: First-degree premeditated murder
- Count 2: Homicide felony murder (punishable by life imprisonment)
- Count 3: Torture (punishable by life imprisonment)
- Count 4: Conspiracy to commit torture (up to life and a $10,000 fine)
- Count 5: Assault of a pregnant individual (potentially causing miscarriage or stillbirth, punishable by life)
- Count 6: Conspiracy to commit assault causing miscarriage or stillbirth (up to life imprisonment or $10,000)
- Count 7: Unlawful imprisonment (up to 15 years and/or a $20,000 fine)
- Count 8: Removal of dead bodies without medical examiner permission (misdemeanor, up to 1 year or $500 fine)
Charges Against Cortney Bartholomew
- Count 1: First-degree premeditated murder
- Count 2: Homicide felony murder (punishable by life imprisonment)
- Count 3: Torture (punishable by life imprisonment)
- Count 4: Conspiracy to commit torture (up to life and a $10,000 fine)
- Count 5: Assault of a pregnant individual (potentially causing miscarriage or stillbirth, punishable by life)
- Count 6: Conspiracy to commit assault causing miscarriage or stillbirth (up to life or $10,000)
- Count 7: Unlawful imprisonment (up to 15 years and/or a $20,000 fine)
- Count 8: Removal of dead bodies without medical examiner permission (misdemeanor, up to 1 year or $500 fine)
Court Proceedings
Judge Corey Wiggins ruled that both individuals pose a threat and a flight risk. Due to the severity of the case, which includes allegations of brutal violence, both were ordered held without bond.
The prosecutor, Johanna Carey, emphasized the gravity of the situation, stating that the case’s circumstances warranted strict measures. She described the events as “horrible,” highlighting the need to preserve the case’s integrity.
Discovery and Investigation
The body identified as Rebecca was found on November 25 in the Manistee National Forest. She had been missing from Boon in Wexford County just days before giving birth. Authorities confirmed that Rebecca’s baby was not found with her remains, and the official cause of death is still pending.
The investigation, involving the Wexford County Sheriff’s Office and Michigan State Police, is ongoing. They continue to seek information regarding Rebecca’s child, while public details remain limited as the case unfolds.
