CADILLAC, Mich. (Michigan News Source) – In the case of murdered mother-to-be Rebecca Park, the courtroom doors didn’t just close – they slammed shut on the public.
According to 9&10 News, Tuesday’s hearing involving suspects Cortney and Bradly Bartholomew and a motion regarding court-ordered competency evaluations, Judge Wiggins ordered the proceedings cleared and sealed the records entirely, citing concerns over the defendants’ mental health and right to a fair trial.
Alleged plot to steal baby ends in double tragedy.
Investigators say 22-year-old Rebecca Park, who was 38 weeks pregnant, was allegedly lured, tortured, and killed by Cortney Bartholomew (Rebecca’s biological mother) and her husband Bradly Bartholomew in November 2025.
Prosecutors say the couple attacked Park in an attempt to take her unborn baby, resulting in the deaths of both mother and child. Rebecca’s body was later discovered in the Manistee National Forest. Reports indicate the baby was forcibly removed and did not survive. The infant’s remains have not been recovered.
Defense attorneys argued the hearing would include “sensitive” mental health details and pushed to keep it out of public view. The judge agreed – despite the gruesome details of the crime already being widely reported.
