In a shocking case that unfolded in Michigan, a woman accused of killing two foster parents lashed out in a profanity-filled outburst during her first court appearance. The woman, identified as 42-year-old Shuvonne Vinson, faces multiple serious charges, including two counts of murder and attempted murder.
The tragic incident happened on New Year’s Day, January 1, when Vinson and her alleged accomplices, Gregory Callahan, 37, and Keith Finley, 60, reportedly carried out a deadly attack on the Bernhard family.
According to prosecutors, Vinson, Callahan, and Finley broke into the Bernhards’ home in Northfield Township with plans to kill the foster parents and abduct their two children. The victims were identified as Jennifer Lyn Bernhard, 48, her father Stevie Ray Smith, 74, and her husband, Jeffrey Alan Bernhard, 52.
During the invasion, Jennifer Bernhard and Smith were shot and killed, while Jeffrey Bernhard was critically wounded but managed to escape to a neighbor’s house for help. He is currently hospitalized in stable condition and expected to survive.
The Alleged Motive
Authorities believe the primary motive was to kidnap the couple’s two children — a 9-year-old daughter and a 4-year-old foster child. During her court hearing, Vinson appeared to suggest a personal connection to the 4-year-old foster child. She yelled, “They assaulted my motherf——- child,” and claimed she should not be in jail.
Captured After a Manhunt
The police found Vinson, Callahan, and the children unharmed in nearby Ypsilanti Township. The suspects were taken into custody without further incident.
Courtroom Outburst
Vinson’s video arraignment on January 3 took a chaotic turn when she erupted in anger as the charges were read. At one point, she interrupted and denied her role in the crime, saying, “No, I did not.” Her frustration boiled over when she said, “Those motherf—–s deserved to die.” She then requested to leave the hearing before it ended.
The Charges
The charges against Vinson, Callahan, and Finley are extensive. They each face:
- Two counts of open murder
- Assault with intent to murder
- Home invasion
- Two counts of kidnapping
- Conspiracy to commit murder
- Conspiracy to commit kidnapping
- Conspiracy to commit home invasion
- Carrying a dangerous weapon with unlawful intent
- Possession of stolen property
- Felony firearm
Additionally, Vinson faces more charges, including assaulting police officers, carrying a concealed weapon, and possessing firearms and ammunition despite being prohibited from doing so.
No Bail for the Accused
Both Vinson and Callahan are being held without bond, according to Northfield Township police. Finley, who reportedly refused to attend his arraignment, remains in custody as well.
This tragic and violent case has raised serious questions about foster care, family disputes, and the protection of children.
(source: newsbreak.com)
