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Prosecution Highlights Forensic Evidence and Text Messages in Karen Read Retrial

Day 13 of the trial saw testimony from Sgt. Yuri Bukhenik, who defended the investigation and presented key evidence as the defense reiterated claims of a cover-up.

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Karen Read, left, and her defense attorney Robert Alessi listen to Massachusetts State Police Sergeant Yuriy Bukhenik testify during the trial of Karen Read in Norfolk Superior Court, in Dedham, Mass., on May 8, 2025.
In her ongoing trial for the murder of boyfriend John O’Keefe, Karen Read faced scrutiny after a video emerged showing her potentially raising her middle finger in court. (AP Photo/Charles Krupa, Pool)

Overview

  • Sgt. Yuri Bukhenik testified about forensic evidence, including broken taillight fragments and surveillance footage, supporting the theory that Karen Read struck John O’Keefe with her SUV.
  • Prosecutors introduced flirty text messages between Read and ATF Agent Brian Higgins, suggesting potential motive tied to a strained relationship with O’Keefe.
  • The defense continued to argue that O’Keefe was beaten inside the house at 34 Fairview Road and that Read was framed in a conspiracy involving law enforcement partygoers.
  • Bukhenik acknowledged early doubts about the cause of O’Keefe’s injuries, including a theory he was struck with a cocktail glass, but maintained the investigation ultimately pointed to a vehicle strike.
  • Former Trooper Michael Proctor’s misconduct was addressed, with Bukhenik asserting that Proctor’s actions did not compromise the integrity of the investigation.