Fri Jun 13 12:50:00 UTC 2025: **NEWS ARTICLE:**
**Karen Read Murder Trial Nears Verdict as Jury Deliberations Loom**
**DEDHAM, Mass. –** After 31 days of testimony, the fate of Karen Read is now in the hands of the jury. Read, 45, is on trial for the alleged murder of her former boyfriend, Boston Police Officer John O’Keefe, 46, who was found dead outside a Canton, Massachusetts home during a blizzard on January 29, 2022. Closing arguments are scheduled for Friday morning, June 13, 2025, after which the jury will begin deliberations.
Prosecutors allege that Read struck O’Keefe with her SUV after dropping him off at a house party, leaving him to die in the snow. Special prosecutor Hank Brennan, who took over the case after a mistrial, highlighted key evidence, including plastic fragments matching Read’s taillight found on O’Keefe’s clothing. Medical experts testified that O’Keefe’s injuries were consistent with being struck by a vehicle. Prosecutors also point to Read’s alleged repeated statement, “I hit him.”
The defense maintains that no collision occurred and that O’Keefe was attacked by someone at the party, potentially even a dog. Read’s legal team, comprised of attorneys David Yannetti, Robert Alessi, Alan Jackson, and Elizabeth Little, argued that the police investigation was inadequate, highlighting mishandled evidence and lack of a search warrant for the property where O’Keefe’s body was discovered. The defense team presented expert testimony disputing the prosecution’s claims, suggesting O’Keefe’s injuries were caused by a fall on a grainy surface or even animal bites.
Adding a layer of controversy, former Massachusetts State Trooper Michael Proctor, who worked on the case, was terminated for sharing confidential information and making lewd remarks about Read in private communications.
The case hinges on conflicting expert testimony and questions surrounding the integrity of the initial investigation. A key point is the timing of a Google search, “how long to die in cold,” performed by witness Jennifer McCabe. According to retired NYPD Inspector Paul Mauro, if the timing corroborates McCabe’s testimony, Read’s conviction is likely.
Judge Beverly Cannone denied the defense’s motion for a finding of not guilty, paving the way for jury deliberations. Read faces a potential sentence of 15 years to life if convicted on the top charge. A conviction of drunken driving manslaughter could result in a sentence of 5 to 20 years. Fox News will continue to provide updates on this developing case.
First Piper 