Massachusetts State Trooper Fired After Karen Read Investigation Fallout

FRAMINGHAM, Mass. — Massachusetts State Police Trooper Michael Proctor was fired Wednesday for his unsatisfactory performance and conduct during the Karen Read murder investigation, according to Colonel Geoffrey Noble.

The decision comes after Proctor faced a trial board that ultimately recommended his termination following a lengthy disciplinary hearing. Proctor, a 12-year veteran of the department, had been suspended without pay since July 2024 after a mistrial in Read’s first trial.

Read is accused of killing John O'Keefe, a Boston police officer, with her SUV on January 29, 2022. Prosecutors allege she left him to die following a night of drinking. Proctor’s handling of communications during the investigation drew scrutiny, particularly text messages he sent about Read.

Colonel Noble emphasized the importance of public trust and accountability within the department, stating, “Our mission to deliver the highest level of police services depends on the public’s trust in our professionalism and integrity. It is incumbent upon me, as well as every member of this Department, to hold one another accountable when any member compromises our mission by failing to uphold our values.”

In the hearing, Proctor was found guilty of two charges: unsatisfactory performance and violating policy regarding alcoholic beverages. During his testimony, Proctor acknowledged sending inappropriate messages about Read, describing them as “regrettable.” In one message, he referred to her as a “whack job,” and in another, he expressed a desire for her to commit self-harm.

Noble’s statement also included condolences to O’Keefe’s family, recognizing the lasting impact of the investigation on them. “Finally, recognizing the ways in which this process has affected the family of Boston Police Officer John O’Keefe, I would also like to renew our condolences to them,” Noble said.

Proctor’s family issued their disappointment in the trial board’s decision, stating, “…it lacks precedent, and unfairly exploits and scapegoats one of their own, a trooper with a 12-year unblemished record.” They expressed hope that justice would still be served despite the internal outcome against him.

Read’s defense team continues to assert her innocence, claiming the investigation has been flawed and politically influenced. They have stated that evidence against her is built on disinformation and unsupported claims by law enforcement.

As of now, Proctor retains the right to appeal his termination through the Civil Service Commission. Meanwhile, Karen Read is slated for a retrial beginning next month, with jury selection expected to start on April 1.