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Karen Read Retrial Nears Deliberations After Closing Arguments

After eight weeks of dueling expert testimony with allegations of investigative bias, the jury will begin deliberations on Friday.

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Supporters of Karen Read gather prior to the day's session outside Norfolk Superior Court, Thursday, June 12, 2025, in Dedham, Mass. (AP Photo/Charles Krupa)
Karen Read talks with her attorney, Robert Alessi, during her trial at Norfolk Superior Court, Thursday, June 12, 2025, in Dedham, Mass. (AP Photo/Charles Krupa, Pool)
Karen Read talks with Judge Beverly Cannone when asked if she wants to take the stand in her own defense in Norfolk Superior Court, Dedham, Mass. on Wednesday June 11, 2025.

Overview

  • Closing arguments begin Friday, wrapping up a second trial that resumed after a July 2024 mistrial in the 2022 death of Boston policeman John O’Keefe.
  • Prosecutors pointed to vehicle data showing Read’s Lexus reversed at about 24 mph and to taillight fragments embedded in O’Keefe’s clothing as evidence of a collision.
  • Defense experts, including biomechanist Dr. Andrew Rentschler, testified that O’Keefe’s injuries and minimal SUV damage are not consistent with being struck by Read’s vehicle.
  • Lead investigator Michael Proctor was dismissed for sending sexist text messages about Read, a development the defense says undermines the integrity of the investigation.
  • Read, who did not testify in her own defense, is charged with second-degree murder, vehicular manslaughter while intoxicated and leaving the scene of a collision as jurors prepare to deliberate.