Karen Read, acquitted of murder charges related to the death of former boyfriend and Boston police officer John O’Keefe, shared her experiences in a recent interview. Speaking on the “Today” show, Read stated that she no longer pays for meals when dining out, highlighting the support she received after the jury’s verdict.
Public Reaction
Responding to co-host Craig Melvin, Read acknowledged that while some people might still hold negative views, she has encountered overwhelming positivity in public interactions. “I have no interactions like that,” she explained, referring to negative judgments. Instead, Read described enjoying discounts and support across Massachusetts and beyond.
She pointed out the significant number of supporters outside the Dedham courthouse during her trial as evidence of wide support.
Legal Battles and Future Plans
Despite her acquittal on most charges, Read’s professional license remains unissued, and she is not currently employed. She is actively involved in her ongoing legal battle, bringing in civil lawyers to manage the complex case.
Read faced trial after prosecutors accused her of hitting O’Keefe with her SUV, leaving the scene, where he died during a snowstorm. The defense criticized the investigation, citing misconduct by lead detective Michael Proctor, who was dismissed for sending inappropriate messages related to the case.
Continued Legal Actions
After a jury deadlocked in her first trial, Read was retried and found not guilty of all homicide-related charges, though she was convicted of drunken driving. She is now pursuing legal action against the Massachusetts State Police and the Canton Police Department. Her lawsuit claims bias, corruption, and attempts to frame her for O’Keefe’s death.
“This was always our plan,” Read stated regarding her lawsuit, emphasizing her focus on addressing what her legal team describes as systemic corruption in law enforcement. Her attorney, Alan Jackson, echoed this aim, stating the lawsuit seeks to expose deeper issues.
Additionally, Read faces a wrongful death lawsuit from O’Keefe’s family. When asked about her message to them, she had nothing further to add, highlighting her long-standing relationship and time spent with them years ago.
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