Wife Could Face Murder Charge In Husband's Beating Death

MILFORD, Mich. (WWJ/AP) - Charges could be upgraded against a 58-year-old Detroit-area woman after the death of her husband who was beaten last month with a crowbar.

The Oakland Press in Pontiac reports Sunday that 68-year-old Greg Cortis of Milford died Saturday in a hospital from trauma to his head and body.

Police found him Nov. 30 on a floor in their home. The family's dog also was beaten.

Yvonne Cortis is being held in the Oakland County Jail on a $1 million bond.

She currently is charged with assault with intent to murder and animal torturing. Court officials have said she has a history of mental illness.

Authorities said Cortis admitted her role in the attack Monday. She said her 68-year-old husband, Greg, and dog, an 11-year-old golden retriever named Carley, were sick and suffering. According to reports, Greg Cortis has Alzheimer's Disease.

Milford Police Detective Sergeant Scott Tarasiewicz said the family indicated that this may not have been the first case of domestic violence. Court officials say Yvonne Cortis has a history of mental illness.

Milford Police Chief Thomas Lindberg says his department "will be working with" prosecutors to "enhance the charges to a murder case."
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