Background on the Case
Karen Read is on trial, accused of killing her boyfriend, Boston police Officer John O’Keefe, in January 2022. The jury must decide whether prosecutors have proven beyond a reasonable doubt that Read hit O’Keefe with her SUV and left him to die. Supporters of Read claim she’s being framed, making the trial highly contentious and closely watched by the media.
The Mistrial’s Aftermath
State Police Trooper Michael Proctor, who called Karen Read a “wack job c**t” and “retarded” in text messages, was relieved of duty on Monday. Officials announced his removal just hours after the high-profile murder case ended in a mistrial.
Proctor’s Involvement and Misconduct
As a lead investigator in the case, Proctor’s inappropriate texts were read aloud in court. He admitted he “dehumanized” Read in these messages. On the stand, he confirmed calling her offensive names and making derogatory remarks about her Crohn’s disease.
Governor Healey’s Reaction
Governor Maura Healey criticized Proctor after his testimony:It’s terrible … it’s completely unprofessional. It does harm, frankly, to the dignity and the integrity of the work of men and women across the State Police and law enforcement. So as a former attorney general and as governor, I am disgusted by that
Official Statements and Next Steps
Colonel John Mawn Jr. stated that Proctor will be transferred out of the State Police Detective’s Unit effective July 7:This follows our previous decision to open an internal affairs investigation after information about serious misconduct emerged in testimony at the trial. This investigation is ongoing. Our focus remains on delivering the highest level of police services with professionalism and integrity
The jury began deliberations in the trial last Tuesday, marking a critical phase in determining whether Karen Read will face conviction or acquittal. As developments unfold, Proctor’s case reminds us of the significant impact an investigator’s conduct can have on public perception and justice.
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