Karen Read was found not guilty of second-degree murder on Wednesday in a high-profile case involving the death of her boyfriend, Boston police officer John O’Keefe. The jury’s decision clears her of the most serious charges following a second trial, leaving only a conviction for operating under the influence (OUI).The verdict sparked cheers outside the Norfolk County courthouse in Dedham, Massachusetts, where Read addressed a crowd of loyal supporters.
‘No one fought harder’
“No one has fought harder for justice for John O’Keefe than I have. Than I have and my team,” Read said to applause. She also thanked those who stood by her: “I could not be standing here without these amazing supporters who supported me and my team financially and more importantly emotionally for almost four years.”Read was accused of hitting O’Keefe with her car after a night of drinking in 2022 and then leaving him in a snowbank to die. Her defence team countered that she was being framed by a group of law enforcement officers and that O’Keefe’s death was the result of a broader conspiracy.
Jury dismisses key charges
The jury rejected the charges of second-degree murder, manslaughter and leaving the scene of an accident causing death. The only conviction left standing was for drunk driving.Read got emotional in the courtroom and hugged her lawyer Alan Jackson after the verdict. Outside, her supporters cheered loudly and flashed hand signs to show their support.
O’Keefe family calls verdict a ‘miscarriage of justice ’
While Read’s backers hailed the decision, O’Keefe’s family and close friends expressed deep frustration. The McCabe and Albert families, who testified for the prosecution, said in a statement:“Today, our hearts are with John and the entire O’Keefe family. They have suffered through so much and deserved better from our justice system.”They added, “This prosecution was infected by lies and conspiracy theories spread by Karen Read, her defence team, and some in the media. The result is a devastating miscarriage of justice.”
Years-long legal battle
Read’s case has gripped the Boston area since 2022. The death of Officer O’Keefe and the unusual circumstances surrounding it led to widespread speculation and a divided public. Read’s legal team, backed by significant resources, argued that law enforcement had turned against her and created a false narrative to protect their own.As she exited the courthouse for what may be the final time connected to the criminal case, Read placed her hand on her heart as her supporters erupted in cheers. Her legal team followed close behind as the car pulled away from the crowd.
Civil suit still pending
Despite the acquittal, O’Keefe’s family has filed a wrongful death lawsuit, meaning legal proceedings will continue. Read now faces questions of her future and the many unresolved truths surrounding John O’Keefe’s death.In August 2024, O’Keefe’s family filed a wrongful death lawsuit against Read and two Canton bars for overserving her alcohol. The civil case remains active, even as the criminal trial concludes