Who is Karen Read and What did she do?
Who is Karen Read?
Karen Read is a woman from Massachusetts who is at the heart of a compelling and emotional legal case. She was in a relationship with Boston police officer John O’Keefe, and what started as a tragic death has become one of the most closely followed trials in the country.
What is she accused of?
Prosecutors claim that on January 29, 2022, Karen dropped off O’Keefe outside a fellow officer’s house after a night of drinking. They allege she accidentally or possibly intentionally hit him with her SUV and left him to die in the snow. The charges are grave: second-degree murder, manslaughter while driving under the influence, and leaving the scene of a fatal accident.
Karen Read's Defence
Karen Read and her legal team present a different narrative. They argue she is being framed. The defence claims O’Keefe was injured inside the house, not by the car, and points to a police cover-up, with key evidence ignored or mishandled. The case has stirred strong emotions, particularly as it questions the integrity of law enforcement.
Where is the trial now?
The first trial in 2024 ended without a verdict due to a hung jury, resulting in a mistrial. As of April 22, 2025, Karen Read is back in court for a retrial. The courtroom is packed, cameras are rolling, and people across the country are watching closely. The case is now as much about trust in the justice system as it is about guilt or innocence.
Why is the case so controversial?
This case has sparked heated debate because it goes beyond a single tragic incident. Supporters of Karen Read believe she is being unfairly targeted, while others find the evidence against her compelling. It has become a public battle over corruption, power, and accountability, with protests, online campaigns, and documentaries weighing in on the truth.
What’s next?
The retrial is ongoing, with both sides presenting their arguments. The outcome, whether in favour of the prosecution or the defence, will have a lasting impact not just for Karen Read, but for public perception of justice in high-profile cases involving police and authority.
