Karen Read, who was acquitted of murder charges in the death of her former boyfriend and Boston police officer John O’Keefe, discussed her life post-trial in a television interview. She shared that the public support she experiences is overwhelmingly positive and that she often receives free meals when dining out.
During her appearance on the ‘Today’ show, co-host Craig Melvin asked Read about public perception. While some people may still harbor suspicions, Read noted she encounters support in everyday encounters. ‘No matter where I go, from grocery stores to restaurants, people have been kind. I even receive discounts,’ she remarked.
The trial’s visibility brought many supporters to the courtroom in Dedham, Massachusetts, underscoring the strong backing she has received. Read affirmed, ‘It’s something I see throughout Massachusetts and even when I travel.’
Despite her acquittal, Read’s professional license is yet to be reinstated, and she remains out of work. She explained, ‘I’m still working on the case with a team of civil lawyers given its complexity.’
Massachusetts prosecutors pursued charges against Read twice for O’Keefe’s death in January 2022, alleging she struck him with her SUV during a blizzard. Her defense criticized the investigation, citing misconduct from the lead detective, Michael Proctor, who faced dismissal over inappropriate communications.
In the first trial, the jury could not reach a conclusive decision. However, during the retrial, the jury acquitted her of all murder charges, convicting her only of drunk driving. Read now plans to sue both the Massachusetts State Police and Canton Police Department. Her attorneys allege misconduct and a corrupt investigation process.
Her attorney, Alan Jackson, emphasized that the lawsuit aims to illuminate issues within the Massachusetts law enforcement system. ‘Our goal is to expose institutional corruption,’ he stated.
Additionally, Read is facing a wrongful death lawsuit initiated by John O’Keefe’s family. When questioned about any messages for the family, Read expressed no intention to communicate further. ‘I believe they know who I am from past interactions,’ she said.