🚨 SHOCKING COURTROOM MOMENT IN HEARTBREAKING CASE: Dr. Michael McKee Declares “She Belongs to Me, Body and Soul, No One Can Take Her from Me” Before His Lawyer Announces He Will Plead Not Guilty 😔💔

The vascular surgeon, already facing serious charges in the tragic deaths of his ex-wife Monique Tepe and her husband Spencer, made a stunning statement during his court appearance.

“She belongs to me, in spirit and body—no one can take her away from me.”

Those chilling words hung in the air… then his attorney quickly stepped in: his client intends to plead not guilty when the case moves forward in Ohio.

This comes after months of questions— from a prior malpractice lawsuit where he seemed to vanish, to the devastating loss that left two young children without their parents.

Dr. Michael David McKee, the 39-year-old vascular surgeon charged with aggravated murder in the Dec. 30, 2025, deaths of his ex-wife Monique Tepe, 39, and her husband Spencer Tepe, 37, appeared in an Illinois courtroom on Jan. 12, 2026, where he made a notable personal declaration before his attorney outlined his intended plea.

During the extradition hearing in Winnebago County, McKee reportedly stated, “She belongs to me, body and soul, no one can take her from me,” referring to Monique Tepe. The comment, described by observers as intense, preceded his public defender’s announcement that McKee plans to enter not guilty pleas to the charges once extradited to Ohio. McKee waived his right to contest extradition, paving the way for his transfer to Franklin County to face the aggravated murder counts, which carry the possibility of life imprisonment without parole.

The statement has added a layer of emotional complexity to a case already marked by prior professional troubles and accounts from Monique Tepe’s circle about difficulties in their past marriage. McKee and Monique Tepe were married in 2015 and divorced in 2017, with no children from the union. Monique later married Spencer Tepe, and the couple had two young children, ages 1 and 4, who were in the home at the time of the incident but unharmed.

The Tepes were discovered deceased in their Weinland Park residence following a wellness check. Columbus police described the event as a targeted incident, with no indication of random violence. A news conference by Chief Elaine Bryant highlighted investigative leads that traced to McKee in Illinois, where he was arrested on Jan. 10 without incident. A firearm recovered from property linked to McKee has been preliminarily connected to the case through ballistics review.

McKee’s first court appearance in Illinois drew media attention, with footage and reports capturing the moment of his statement. His public defender emphasized his client’s intent to contest the allegations fully in Ohio proceedings. Extradition logistics have faced minor delays, with records indicating transport may not occur immediately, and a tentative new court date set for later in January.

The case intersects with McKee’s professional history. He previously practiced in Nevada, where a malpractice lawsuit filed in 2025 alleged issues with supervision during a procedure that left a patient requiring further intervention due to a retained item. Attorney Dan Laird, representing the plaintiff, described repeated failed attempts to serve McKee, citing nonexistent addresses and evasive contact methods. “He just disappeared,” Laird told outlets, noting the unusual pattern for a licensed physician.

These civil matters emerged months before the Tepe deaths, contributing to speculation about McKee’s circumstances leading up to the tragedy. McKee’s medical license in Nevada expired in June 2025, and he had been working at a facility in Rockford, Illinois, while maintaining ties to Chicago.

Family and friends of the Tepes have shared heartfelt remembrances. Spencer’s cousin described him as deeply caring, always eager to engage with children at gatherings, and someone who cherished family life. Monique was remembered for her warmth, humor, and dedication as a mother. A family statement following McKee’s arrest expressed ongoing grief alongside appreciation for community support: “Monique and Spencer remain at the center of our hearts, and we carry forward their love as we surround and protect the two children they leave behind.”

Associates of Monique have recounted aspects of her earlier marriage to McKee, including experiences of controlling behavior and concerns for safety that persisted in some form even after the divorce. Her brother-in-law, Rob Misleh, noted in interviews that Monique had been resolute in moving forward to a new chapter. These accounts have fueled discussions among experts about patterns in long-term relational dynamics, though authorities have not publicly specified a motive.

The tragedy has resonated widely in Columbus, where both Tepes were well-regarded—Spencer as a dentist and mentor, Monique for her kindness. Memorial services and visitations have provided opportunities for tributes, with friends emphasizing the couple’s love and the profound impact on their young family.

As McKee awaits transfer to Ohio, the legal process will shift to arraignment and potential trial preparation. Prosecutors must establish premeditation and intent under the aggravated murder statutes. Defense strategies may focus on challenging evidence chains, including the preliminary weapon match and other forensic elements still under review.

The case has prompted broader reflections on support for individuals navigating complex post-relationship challenges, with advocates underscoring the importance of resources for emotional well-being and safety planning. Community responses have included calls for compassion toward the children and acknowledgment of the lasting effects on extended family networks.

Pending full forensic reports and court developments, the statement from McKee’s hearing remains a focal point in coverage, highlighting the personal dimensions amid a high-profile investigation. For the Tepe family, the priority continues to be healing and safeguarding the future for the two children left behind.

As proceedings advance, the community watches closely, hoping for answers and justice in a story that has touched many lives.