Federal Investigation Ends as Karen Read Retains Defense Ahead of Retrial

DEDHAM, Mass. (AP) — The federal investigation into the death of Boston Police Officer John O’Keefe and the involvement of Karen Read has concluded without any charges being filed against law enforcement, according to sources who spoke with NBC10 Boston. This marks a pivotal stage in Read’s ongoing legal battles as she faces charges of second-degree murder.

Read, 44, is accused of hitting O’Keefe with her SUV outside a Canton home on the morning of January 29, 2022, and leaving him to die in a snowstorm following a night of drinking. The conclusion of the federal probe comes just months after a mistrial was declared in her first trial where jurors could not reach a unanimous decision.

Details of the investigation revealed that federal prosecutors had engaged crash reconstruction experts to examine the evidence related to the case. Their findings, however, differed from those presented during Read’s initial trial, leading her defense team to incorporate this testimony, which ultimately contributed to the mistrial declared this past summer.

As Read prepares for her retrial scheduled for April 1, 2025, significant events are unfolding in court. A major hearing is set for Tuesday, during which prosecutors are expected to discuss allegations regarding the testimony of defense crash reconstruction experts. Judge Beverly Cannone expressed ‘grave concern’ last week over new revelations surrounding potentially undisclosed payments made to defense witnesses.

Sources indicate that the U.S. Attorney’s Office contacted local law enforcement agencies last week to confirm that no charges will be filed, a decision expected to be officially announced during the upcoming hearing. Read’s attorneys are also awaiting a ruling on several motions requesting evidence they believe is crucial for her defense.

Earlier this week, the judge denied multiple requests from Read’s defense, including access to a confidential internal affairs report regarding Trooper Michael Proctor, whose conduct came under scrutiny due to offensive text messages he sent about Read. The judge did order the prosecution to share other information, including emails and communications between law enforcement officials and witnesses.

In a related development, defense attorneys are contesting the prosecution’s motion to allow meteorologist Robert Gilman to testify about the ground conditions where O’Keefe’s body was found, arguing that his lack of expertise in geology undermines the relevance of his testimony.

Legal analysts suggest that the defense’s handling of expert witness interactions during the first trial could lead to severe repercussions. Special prosecutor Hank Brennan has hinted at possible sanctions against Read’s attorneys for misrepresentation, highlighting the complex nature of this high-profile case.

As both sides prepare for the new trial, the implications of the federal investigation’s findings — or lack thereof — are expected to play a crucial role in Read’s defense and her assertions of a cover-up involving law enforcement.