LANSING — In a statement released Tuesday, the Michigan attorney general said her office would be assisting in the prosecution of Cortney and Bradly Bartholomew.
“We are committed to working alongside the Wexford County Prosecuting Attorney’s Office to ensure justice is pursued in this tragic case without delay,” Dana Nessel said.
Cortney Bartholomew, 40, and Bradly Bartholomew, 47, both of Boon, were arraigned before Judge Corey Wiggins in the 84th District Court in Cadillac on multiple felony charges related to the murder of Rebecca Park, 22, of Manton, Nessel announced in that statement.
“This case involves a truly horrific homicide in which a young woman and her unborn child endured unimaginable suffering at the hands of the defendants,” Wexford County Prosecutor Johanna Carey said. “The brutality and disregard for human life displayed here are deeply troubling.
“While these remain allegations until proven in court, the evidence reflects an extraordinary level of callousness and violence. We look forward to presenting the full facts in court.”
According to Nessel, each of the Bartholomews has been charged with:
• One count of first-degree murder, a potential life sentence offense;
• One count of felony murder, a potential life sentence offense;
• One count of torture, a potential life sentence offense;
• One count of conspiracy to commit torture, a potential life sentence offense;
• One count of assault on a pregnant individual causing miscarriage/stillbirth, a potential life sentence offense;
• One count of conspiracy to commit assault on a pregnant individual causing miscarriage/stillbirth, a potential life sentence offense;
• One count of unlawful imprisonment, a 15-year felony; and
• One count of removal of a dead body, a 1-year misdemeanor.
“Rebecca had everything to live for, and our hearts are with her loved ones as they endure this unthinkable loss,” Nessel said.
Nessel added that any individual who believes they have information to assist in the ongoing investigation may contact the tip line at 231-306-2072 or the Wexford County Sheriff’s Department at 231-779-9216.