Massachusetts Jury Continues Deliberations in Karen Read Murder Trial
Canton, MA – A jury in Massachusetts is entering its third full day of deliberations in the high-profile murder trial of Karen Read, a 45-year-old former adjunct professor accused in the death of her boyfriend, Boston police officer John O’Keefe. The deliberations began after a complex case involving conflicting narratives surrounding the circumstances of O’Keefe’s death on January 29, 2022.
Accusations and Charges
Prosecutors assert that Read struck O’Keefe with her Lexus SUV during a snowstorm while he was attending a house party in Canton. They allege she acted out of anger and intoxication, leaving him to succumb to fatal injuries. Read faces serious charges, including second-degree murder, vehicular manslaughter while driving under the influence, and leaving the scene of a fatal accident.
In contrast, the defense contends that O’Keefe sustained his injuries from a physical altercation at the home of fellow officer Brian Albert and that a German Shepherd named Chloe was involved in the incident. The defense maintains that Read is not guilty.
Jury Inquiries
On Tuesday, the jury sought clarifications from Judge Beverly Cannone regarding key pieces of evidence and legal concepts. The list of questions included:
- Are video clips of Karen’s interviews considered as evidence, and how should they be evaluated?
- If jurors convict on a lesser charge, does it result in a conviction for the overall charge?
- What is the timeline concerning the OUI (Operating Under the Influence) charge?
- If jurors find not guilty on some charges but cannot agree on one, does it result in a hung jury for all charges or just one?
Judge Cannone responded that some inquiries were theoretical and could not be definitively answered.
Previous Mistrial
This deliberation follows a prior mistrial nearly a year ago when a jury was unable to reach a unanimous verdict. As the new jury continues to weigh the evidence, the case remains a focal point of public interest and legal scrutiny.
Updates will follow as new information becomes available as the jury continues its discussions.
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