Jurors Continue Deliberations in High-Profile Massachusetts Murder Trial
Karen Read Accused of Killing Boston Police Officer
Jurors in Massachusetts have entered their second day of deliberations in the contentious murder trial of Karen Read, who is accused of fatally striking her boyfriend, Boston Police Officer John O’Keefe, with her SUV during a snowstorm in January 2022. The 12-member jury has spent over nine hours reviewing the case without reaching a verdict as deliberations resumed on Tuesday at the Norfolk Superior Court in Dedham.
Details of the Case
Karen Read, a 45-year-old former adjunct professor, is facing severe charges, including second-degree murder, vehicular manslaughter while under the influence, and leaving the scene of a fatal accident. According to prosecutors, Read deliberately ran over O’Keefe with her Lexus SUV after an argument regarding their relationship, leaving him to succumb to his injuries in the freezing conditions.
During the initial trial last year, jury members faced a hung jury despite a few indicating they viewed Read as not guilty on two out of the three counts. This has contributed to the complexity of the ongoing proceedings.
Arguments from Both Ends
The prosecution has maintained that Read’s actions were fueled by intoxication and anger. Prosecutor Hank Brennan highlighted the fact that Read had the opportunity to call for help but instead fled the scene. “He looked out for others," said Brennan, referring to O’Keefe. "Instead of helping him, she abandoned him."
Conversely, the defense has argued that O’Keefe was injured before the incident at another officer’s home and was left outside during a blizzard after an altercation involving a pet dog. They have contested the prosecution’s narrative and asked for clearer guidelines on jury instructions, which were denied by Judge Beverly Cannone.
Public Interest and Support
As Read arrived at court on Tuesday, she was met by a crowd of supporters, indicating the case’s significant public interest. With the jury yet to reach a consensus, the community and observers alike await a verdict, which is expected to be announced soon.
Next Steps
Updates will follow as the jury continues their deliberations and any further developments arise in this high-stakes trial.
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