News Summary

Karen Read, accused in the tragic death of Boston Police Officer John O’Keefe, was acquitted of second-degree murder and other serious charges. After lengthy deliberation, a jury found her guilty only of a minor OUI offense. The case raised significant concerns about the investigation’s integrity, leading to major reforms within the Massachusetts State Police. Public sentiment regarding the verdict was polarized, showcasing complex emotions surrounding the outcome and the impact on O’Keefe’s family.

Norfolk, Massachusetts – Karen Read, 45, was acquitted of second-degree murder, operating under the influence (OUI) manslaughter, and leaving the scene of a collision causing death in her highly publicized trial related to the death of her boyfriend, Boston Police Officer John O’Keefe. A jury rendered their verdict after 22 hours of deliberation, finding Read guilty only of a minor OUI offense.

The trial stemmed from the tragic incident that took place in January 2022, during which Read faced serious charges connected to O’Keefe’s death. She was formally indicted in 2022, leading to her first trial in 2024, which ended in a mistrial. A subsequent trial began in April 2025, reflecting the complexities and sensitivities surrounding the case.

The investigation’s integrity came under intense scrutiny, particularly following the first trial. The lead investigator, Trooper Michael Proctor, was dismissed from Massachusetts State Police (MSP) due to inappropriate conduct during the investigation. His termination amplified calls for accountability and reaffirmed public concerns regarding the standard of investigations conducted by the police department.

In response to the verdict and the investigation’s shortcomings, Massachusetts State Police Colonel Geoffrey Noble, appointed by Governor Maura Healey in October 2024, announced significant reforms within the department. These reforms aim to improve investigative training, enhance oversight protocols, and ensure greater accountability among officers. Noble expressed condolences to the family of John O’Keefe while committing to a thorough review of departmental actions over the past three years.

The MSP will roll out extensive training programs focused on courtroom testimony, social media policy, case management, and DNA processes for investigative personnel. These initiatives are part of a broader strategy to address public skepticism and restore confidence in the department.

Public sentiment around the case has shown a notable divide, as polls indicated that 78% of jurors in Norfolk County believed Read was innocent of manslaughter, while 68% felt the evidence presented did not substantiate a finding of wrongful death. This strong public opinion illustrates the complexity and sensitivity of the case, as the community grapples with the implications of the trial’s outcome.

The family of John O’Keefe has reportedly described the past 3.5 years as a nightmare, expressing their devastation over the trial’s verdict. Following the announcement, Read stated that she had fought hard for justice on behalf of O’Keefe, despite the outcome, highlighting the emotional weight the case has carried for all involved.

The broader context of this trial highlights a crucial moment for the Massachusetts State Police as they face ongoing public scrutiny and pressure to improve their investigative practices. Although several other members of the MSP faced disciplinary action during this time, Proctor’s termination was significant given the investigation’s pivotal role in the trial against Read.

The MSP’s ongoing policy enhancements and the introduction of new training are viewed as necessary steps to rebuild public trust in the law enforcement agency. As the department navigates these challenges, the search for accountability and integrity remains at the forefront of its mission.