Why Michigan mother charged with son's murder wasn't in courtroom
Shanda Vander Ark was not in the courtroom to hear jurors read their findings. The judge explains why he didn't force her to attend.
Stay updated with breaking news from Vander Ark. Get real-time updates on events, politics, business, and more. Visit us for reliable news and exclusive interviews.
Shanda Vander Ark was not in the courtroom to hear jurors read their findings. The judge explains why he didn't force her to attend.
Court proceedings picked up Friday morning sans defendant, as a mother is charged with neglecting and abusing her teenage son to the point he died in the basement of their Norton Shores home.
A Muskegon County Circuit Court jury deliberated just over an hour before convicting her of first degree murder
Matt Roberts was the prosecutor for Vander Ark's trial and called Friday's verdict justice for Timothy.
An autopsy determined the teenager died from from malnourishment and hypothermia. The medical examiner ruled his death a homicide.