A Michigan couple has been charged in connection with the horrific murder of 22-year-old Rebecca Park and her unborn child. Authorities allege that Cortney Bartholomew, 40, and Bradly Bartholomew, 47, who are Park’s biological mother and stepfather respectively, meticulously planned the crime before luring Park to a remote area in the northern Michigan woods, where they brutally attacked her and cut the baby from her womb.
During a court arraignment on December 2 in Cadillac, Wexford County Prosecutor Johanna Carey detailed the charges, which include first-degree premeditated murder, felony murder in relation to Park’s death, and torture in a confined space. Additionally, they faced charges for conspiracy to commit these acts, assault of a pregnant woman leading to a miscarriage, and unlawful imprisonment. They were also charged with the act of moving a deceased body. Prosecutor Carey described the case as “frankly, evil personified.”
Rebecca Park, who was found deceased on November 25 in the Huron-Manistee National Forest after being reported missing on November 4, was 38 weeks pregnant at the time of her murder. Tragically, authorities noted that Park’s baby was “not present” upon discovery. The community of Wexford County has been left in shock, grappling with the disturbing details of the case that has unfolded.
The courtroom was packed with community members, referred to as “Rebecca’s voice,” who expressed their support for Park and her child with signs advocating for justice. Emotions ran high as the charges were read, with gasps and cries echoing throughout the small courtroom. Many attendees had previously volunteered in the search for Park, demonstrating the close-knit nature of the community and the deep impact this tragedy has had.
Two other family members were previously charged in relation to the case: Park’s sister, Kimberly Park, and Richard Falor, her fiancé. Kimberly Park is accused of misleading authorities during the investigation, resulting in charges for tampering with evidence and providing false information to police. Falor, who has faced drug-related charges, pleaded not guilty in court.
As the community rallies for justice, Stacey Davis, the estranged sister of Bradly Bartholomew, lamented the situation, emphasizing her support for Rebecca and her baby rather than her brother, highlighting the pervasive sense of loss and grief surrounding the case. The prosecution’s ongoing efforts and community determination may lead to justice for Rebecca Park and her unborn child, as many continue to hope for a resolution to this tragic event.