The high-profile case of Karen Read, accused in the death of Boston police officer John O’Keefe, is set to continue with a new trial date of January 27, 2025. This development comes after a mistrial was declared earlier this month in Norfolk Superior Court.
Karen Read, 44, appeared before Judge Beverly Cannone on Monday for the first time since the inconclusive end to her initial trial. The financial analyst faces charges of second-degree murder, motor vehicle manslaughter while under the influence, and leaving the scene of a fatal collision.
The case stems from a tragic incident on January 29, 2022, when O’Keefe, Read’s boyfriend and a 16-year veteran of the Boston Police Department, was found unresponsive outside a home in Canton, Massachusetts. Prosecutors allege Read struck O’Keefe with her SUV and left him in freezing conditions, leading to his death from blunt force trauma and hypothermia.
Defense attorneys, however, argue that O’Keefe’s death resulted from a cover-up by fellow law enforcement officers. They’ve also spoken out about their concerns regarding the investigation’s integrity, particularly in the conduct of lead investigator Michael Proctor, who was recently suspended.
Additionally, after the mistrial, Karen Read’s legal team has moved to dismiss two of the charges, citing claims of juror consensus on acquittal. Prosecutors have strongly opposed this motion and are waiting for the hearing on August 9 to address these contentious issues.
Meanwhile, the case continues to draw significant public attention, with supporters and critics alike closely watching the proceedings. The January 2025 trial date suggests a lengthy legal process ahead, potentially mirroring the nine-week duration of the initial trial.
