Defense attorneys for a woman accused of hitting her Boston police officer boyfriend with her SUV and leaving him in a snowbank outside another officer's home have begun presenting their case, alleging that she was framed by the police. The incident occurred in January 2022, resulting in the death of Officer John O’Keefe.
The defense called snowplow driver Brian Loughran as their first witness, who testified that he did not see anything on the lawn near the house during his regular route on the night of the incident. Loughran's testimony contradicted the prosecution's timeline and description of events.
Prosecutors claim that the accused, Karen Read, had a tumultuous relationship with O'Keefe and that they were involved in a physical altercation before she allegedly struck him with her SUV. Witnesses testified to the couple's stormy relationship and presented angry texts exchanged between them prior to O’Keefe's death.
Massachusetts State Trooper Joseph Paul provided analysis indicating that Read's vehicle slowed in reverse, consistent with a pedestrian strike. Medical examiner Dr. Irini Scordi-Bello stated that O’Keefe suffered multiple skull fractures, with injuries possibly caused by a blunt object or a fall to the ground.
The defense has raised doubts about the police investigation, highlighting conflicts of interest among investigators and the mishandling of evidence. They pointed out that the crime scene was not properly secured and accused witnesses of changing their stories.
Read has maintained her innocence, stating that there is no case against her and alleging that the prosecution is attempting to fabricate a motive. The trial is expected to conclude soon, with the jury set to begin deliberations next week.
