A Boston Police Officer, John O'Keefe, tragically died from blunt force trauma to the head and hypothermia during a snowstorm in Canton, Massachusetts. His girlfriend at the time, Karen Read, was accused of fatally running him over in a drunken fight and fleeing the scene.
The trial, which ended with a hung jury, is set for a second trial, with both sides requesting a delay to April 1. The state Supreme Court is considering dismissing two charges if the case proceeds to trial, including second-degree murder.
If the case goes to trial, it will be led by a special assistant prosecutor, Hank Brennan, who is seeking unpublished records from reporters who interviewed Read. However, risks in a new trial could arise, according to criminal defense attorney David Gelman.
Read claims she was framed by other members of law enforcement whom O'Keefe had a fight with. Prosecutors allege she hit O'Keefe with her SUV after a drunken fight and left him to die in a snowstorm, with his remains found on a fellow officer's lawn.
Autopsy photos showing wounds on O'Keefe's arm and text messages from a State Trooper have added complexity to the case. Gelman believes a plea deal or case dismissal is likely, criticizing the investigation's ethics.
Special prosecutor Brennan vows to ensure a fair trial for Read and to uncover the truth behind O'Keefe's death. The legal battle continues as both sides prepare for the upcoming trial.
