A deeply disturbing case in Michigan has drawn national attention as a woman accused of killing her pregnant daughter and removing her unborn child prepares to appear in court. The case involves serious allegations, conflicting statements, and multiple charges that could lead to life imprisonment if proven in court.
Court hearings scheduled in Michigan
The case is being heard in Wexford County, where 40-year-old Cortney Bartholomew is scheduled to appear in court soon.
According to records, she will attend a competency hearing on May 5 at the 84th District Court. This hearing will decide whether she is mentally fit to stand trial. A preliminary hearing is also set for May 22.
Victim identified as her biological daughter
Bartholomew is accused of killing 22-year-old Rebecca Park, who was her biological daughter. Reports say Rebecca had been given up for adoption at birth, but the two later reconnected.
At the time of her death, Rebecca was 38 weeks pregnant and close to giving birth.
Victim lured to suspect’s home
Prosecutors claim that Bartholomew lured Rebecca to her home on November 3. She allegedly sent a message showing a large cheque, claiming it was part of an inheritance, to convince Rebecca to visit.
Rebecca was last seen that same night and was reported missing shortly after.
Body discovered weeks later
Rebecca’s body was found on November 25, a few miles away from the suspect’s home. This was just days after her expected due date.
Investigators reported that her abdomen had been cut open, and there was no sign of the unborn baby.
Conflicting statements from accused
During questioning, Bartholomew initially denied involvement but later changed her statement after being confronted with cell phone evidence placing her at the scene.
Authorities say she then admitted to removing the fetus from Rebecca’s womb. However, she claimed that her husband, Bradly Bartholomew, was responsible for killing Rebecca.
According to her version, he forced Rebecca into a car and attacked her, while she later carried out the act of removing the baby.
Husband gives different version
Bradly Bartholomew reportedly gave a completely different account. Investigators say he claimed that his wife planned the attack because she wanted a child and was unable to adopt.
This conflict between their statements is a key part of the ongoing investigation.
Baby did not survive
According to reports, the baby did not survive after being removed. Authorities say the infant was disposed of, though exact details remain part of the investigation.
The tragic loss has added to the seriousness of the case.
Multiple serious charges filed
Both Cortney and Bradly Bartholomew are facing several severe charges, including:
- First-degree murder
- Felony murder
- Torture
- Conspiracy to commit torture
- Assault on a pregnant individual causing miscarriage or stillbirth
- Conspiracy related to the same offence
- Unlawful imprisonment
- Removal of a dead body
Each of the main charges carries the possibility of life imprisonment.
Not guilty pleas entered
Both accused individuals have pleaded not guilty to all charges. The court will now examine evidence, witness statements, and legal arguments as the case moves forward.
