Here’s How Karen Read Reacted to the Jury’s Verdict in Murder Trial

Karen Read Reacts to Not Guilty Verdict in Murder Trial

On Wednesday, June 18, 2025, Karen Read experienced a mix of emotions as the jury delivered its verdict in her murder trial. After facing charges related to the death of her boyfriend, Boston Police Officer John O’Keefe, Karen Read was ultimately found not guilty of second-degree murder. The courtroom was filled with tension as the jury also acquitted her of several other serious charges, including manslaughter while operating under the influence and involuntary manslaughter.

The case, which had spanned nearly four years and involved two trials, had captured the attention of not only the Massachusetts area but also the nation. The jury’s decision marked a pivotal moment for Read, her family, legal team, and supporters who had stood by her throughout the ordeal. As the verdict was read, Read’s immediate reaction was a mix of relief, tears, and gratitude towards her lawyers and the community who had supported her financially and emotionally.

Stepping outside the courthouse in Dedham, Mass., Read was greeted by a crowd of supporters cheering her on. Standing alongside her attorney, Alan Jackson, and her father, William Read, she expressed her gratitude for the unwavering support she had received. Her father acknowledged the strength of their family and the dedication of Read’s legal team in fighting for justice. The emotional moment resonated with those present, highlighting the impact of the lengthy legal battle on Read and those closest to her.

The acquittal of Karen Read on the most serious charges brought a sense of closure to a tumultuous chapter in her life. Throughout the trials, Read had maintained her innocence, claiming she was a victim of a law enforcement cover-up. The details of the events leading to O’Keefe’s death in January 2022 were scrutinised in court, with contrasting narratives presented by the prosecution and the defence.

Prosecutors alleged that Read had recklessly backed her vehicle into O’Keefe, leading to his fatal injuries. On the other hand, Read’s defence team argued that O’Keefe’s injuries were sustained during an altercation at a gathering, possibly involving a third party. The trial exposed the complexities of the case and raised questions about the handling of evidence by authorities, further adding to the drama surrounding the high-profile trial.

Following the jury’s verdict, Read was sentenced to one year of probation for the charge of operating under the influence. Despite the intense legal battle and the toll it had taken on her, Read emerged from the courthouse with a sense of vindication. The conclusion of the trial marked a turning point for Read, who now faces the task of rebuilding her life in the aftermath of a lengthy and arduous legal battle.

As Karen Read navigates the aftermath of the trial and looks towards the future, her story serves as a reminder of the complexities of the justice system and the enduring impact of legal battles on individuals and their loved ones. The verdict may have brought a sense of relief, but the scars of the trial are likely to linger for Read and those involved in the case.