Who Is Karen Read

Karen Read Trial: Jury Deliberates in Boston Cop's Killing

Who is Karen Read?

Timeline of Events

Karen Read, the defendant in a high-profile murder trial, is accused of intentionally striking her Boston police officer boyfriend, John O'Keefe, with her SUV and leaving him to die in 2021.

The prosecution alleges that Read, a nurse, was motivated by rage and jealousy. The defense maintains that she is innocent and was the victim of a police cover-up.

Jurors Begin Deliberations

The jury in the murder trial began deliberating Tuesday after hearing closing arguments from both sides. The panel of seven men and five women must decide whether to convict Read of first-degree murder, which carries a mandatory sentence of life in prison without parole.

Defense: Read is a Patsy

In his closing argument, defense attorney Brad Bailey told jurors that Read is a "convenient patsy" for the Boston Police Department, which is trying to protect its reputation.

Bailey said that evidence points to a police cover-up, including the fact that O'Keefe's body was moved before it was officially declared dead.

Prosecution: Read Acted Intentionally

Assistant District Attorney John Pappas argued that Read acted intentionally when she struck O'Keefe with her SUV.

Pappas presented evidence that Read was angry at O'Keefe for breaking up with her and that she had sent him threatening text messages.

Jury Deliberations Ongoing

The jury is expected to continue deliberating for several days. If they cannot reach a unanimous verdict, the judge could declare a mistrial.