Karen Read’s Parents Relieved After Acquittal: Fear of Losing Her Fades
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Karen Read’s parents, Bill and Janet Read, have expressed their profound relief after their daughter was acquitted of the murder of her police officer boyfriend, John O’Keefe. The Reads shared their emotions with the local Boston CBS station WBZ-TV, emphasising that the fear of losing Karen to incarceration has now dissipated following the court’s verdict of not guilty for second-degree murder.
Bill and Janet Read explained in the interview that the uncertainty and anxiety they had been experiencing during the trial process had been replaced with a mix of emotions after Karen was cleared of the charges. With tears of relief, Janet revealed, “We feel almost like we should know how we feel, but we don’t.” Bill added, “Coming to grips with the idea that the fear that we could lose Karen to incarceration, given the charges, is now gone. That fear has abated.”
Karen Read, 45, faced two separate trials before being acquitted of O’Keefe’s murder. Despite the acquittal for second-degree murder, manslaughter, and other charges, she was found guilty of operating a vehicle under the influence. The incident occurred in 2022 when Karen was accused of fatally injuring O’Keefe with her vehicle following a night out at the home of a Boston police officer. O’Keefe succumbed to blunt force trauma and hypothermia as a result of the incident, which Karen vehemently denied any involvement in and claimed to be a part of a police cover-up.
During the trial, Karen actively participated in her defense, almost acting as a fifth lawyer, according to her parents. The Reads expressed their admiration for Karen’s resilience and intelligence in navigating the legal proceedings. Bill shared, “She’s determined, she’s focused, very bright, and she got us through this, she got herself through this.”
Despite Karen’s steadfastness throughout the trial, her parents acknowledged the toll the case has taken on her life, with the unwanted attention and negative comments she received. Bill highlighted the misogynistic and dehumanizing remarks directed at his daughter, citing the challenges she continues to face even after the verdict.
Looking ahead, Karen and her parents are considering sharing their story further. Janet mentioned the possibility of Karen writing a book about her experience, noting her daughter’s strong writing skills. Bill expressed their desire to support others in similar situations by speaking out and advocating for justice.
As the Reads reflect on the tumultuous journey they have been through, they recognise the blessings and support that have sustained them. They are optimistic about the future and remain determined to use their voice to assist others in need. By standing up for what is right, the Reads hope to turn their challenging experience into a source of empowerment and advocacy.