Rebecca Park’s Biological Mom and Stepfather Charged with First-Degree Murder and Torture
Cortney and Brad Bartholomew, the biological mother and stepfather of Rebecca Park, are facing serious charges related to her death. Each has been charged with eight counts, including first-degree murder, torture, and assault against a pregnant individual. They appeared in Wexford County’s 84th District Court after a previously scheduled hearing was delayed.
Details of the Charges
Both suspects are being held without bond due to the severity of the allegations. Judge Corey Wiggins emphasized the seriousness of the case, considering Brad to be a flight risk and a threat to public safety.
Charges Against Brad Bartholomew
- Count 1: First-degree premeditated murder
- Count 2: Felony murder (punishable by life in prison)
- Count 3: Torture (punishable by life in prison)
- Count 4: Conspiracy to commit torture (up to life and $10,000 fine)
- Count 5: Assault of a pregnant individual (potentially causing miscarriage or stillbirth, punishable by life)
- Count 6: Conspiracy to commit assault against a pregnant individual (punishable by life or up to $10,000 fine)
- Count 7: Unlawful imprisonment (up to 15 years and/or $20,000 fine)
- Count 8: Removal of dead bodies without medical examiner permission (misdemeanor up to 1 year and/or $500 fine)
Charges Against Cortney Bartholomew
- Count 1: First-degree premeditated murder
- Count 2: Felony murder (punishable by life in prison)
- Count 3: Torture (punishable by life in prison)
- Count 4: Conspiracy to commit torture (up to life and $10,000 fine)
- Count 5: Assault of a pregnant individual (potentially causing miscarriage or stillbirth, punishable by life)
- Count 6: Conspiracy to commit assault against a pregnant individual (punishable by life or up to $10,000 fine)
- Count 7: Unlawful imprisonment (up to 15 years and/or $20,000 fine)
- Count 8: Removal of dead bodies without medical examiner permission (misdemeanor up to 1 year and/or $500 fine)
Investigation Updates
The tragic case revolves around the discovery of Rebecca Park’s body on November 25 in the Manistee National Forest. She had disappeared from her home in Boon, Wexford County, just days before her expected delivery date. An autopsy has confirmed her identity, but the official cause of death is still pending.
Search for Rebecca’s Baby
Authorities, including the Wexford County Sheriff’s Office and Michigan State Police, are actively searching for Rebecca’s missing baby, who was not found at the site where her body was discovered. The sheriff has stated that details about the investigation remain limited due to its sensitive nature.
Prosecutor Johanna Carey highlighted the gravity of the situation, affirming that the case’s circumstances justify the request for both suspects to be held without bond. The arraignment proceedings will continue as more details emerge.
