Two family members have been charged in the death of a pregnant woman in Michigan after authorities say she was lured to a home and allegedly tortured in an attempt to remove her unborn child.
Cortney Bartholomew, 40, and Bradly Bartholomew, 47, both from Boon, Michigan, were arraigned Tuesday in the 84th District Court in Cadillac on multiple felony charges connected to the murder of 22-year-old Rebecca Park of Manton. The couple faces charges including first-degree murder, felony murder, torture, and other counts that could carry life sentences.
Officials allege that on Nov. 3, Park—who was approximately 38 weeks pregnant and Cortney Bartholomew’s biological daughter—was brought to the Bartholomews’ Wexford County home, where she was allegedly tortured, resulting in the death of both her and her unborn baby. Park’s remains were later discovered on Nov. 25 in the Manistee National Forest after an extensive search.
“Rebecca had everything to live for, and our hearts are with her loved ones as they endure this unthinkable loss,” Michigan Attorney General Dana Nessel said. She added that her office is working with the Wexford County Prosecutor’s Office to ensure justice is pursued without delay.
Wexford County Prosecutor Johanna Carey described the case as a “truly horrific homicide” in which both the woman and her unborn child endured “unimaginable suffering.” She said the brutality displayed reflects an extraordinary level of callousness and violence, and the full evidence will be presented in court.
The Wexford County Prosecuting Attorney’s Office is leading the prosecution with support from the Michigan Department of Attorney General.