Retired Officer Testifies in O’Keefe Case: Evidence Collection Methods Questioned

DEDHAM, Mass. — In a dramatic courtroom session on Monday, a retired Canton police lieutenant testified about the chaotic conditions surrounding the investigation into the death of John O'Keefe, who was found unresponsive in the snow on January 29, 2022.

Retired Lt. Paul Gallagher described how the blizzard-like conditions hampered efforts to gather evidence at the scene outside 34 Fairview Road. He recalled that the ground was frozen and covered with several inches of snow, with more falling rapidly. “It was your typical New England blizzard, basically,” Gallagher testified.

Gallagher, the highest-ranking officer at the scene, noted that he saw what appeared to be coagulated blood in the snow. Concerned that a shovel could damage or overlook crucial evidence, he opted to use a leaf blower to clear the snow. “I wasn’t going to miss anything with a leaf blower,” he stated, emphasizing his desire for better control over the search.

To contain what he believed were blood samples, Gallagher borrowed red Solo cups from Deputy Police Chief Thomas Keleher, who lived nearby. During his testimony, Gallagher explained his reasoning for using casual drinkware to collect forensic evidence. “They hold liquid terrifically,” he said, acknowledging that Solo cups are not typically used for such purposes.

As Gallagher continued his testimony, special prosecutor Hank Brennan played video clips showing Canton police using the leaf blower to shift snow. Gallagher also explained that only footprints from first responders were visible at the scene, indicating the absence of civilian activity immediate to the location.

Cross-examined by defense attorney Alan Jackson, Gallagher faced scrutiny over the lack of formal reports documenting his observations and actions on the day of O’Keefe’s death. Gallagher defended his choices, noting that officers had previously documented significant details related to the investigation.

“You could have documented the scene with photographs even if you went back and got a swab,” Jackson pressed. Gallagher responded, stating, “It was ongoing. I needed the other officers.”

Also testifying on Monday, Canton firefighter and paramedic Katie McLaughlin recalled Read’s frantic statements upon arriving at the scene. “I hit him, I hit him,” McLaughlin said Read repeatedly claimed, which was noted in her interactions with first responders. These moments raised crucial questions about the events leading up to O’Keefe’s death.

The prosecution alleges that Read, who had been drinking, intentionally struck O’Keefe with her SUV after a night of partying. They maintain that she fled the scene, leaving him to die alone in the freezing conditions. However, the defense argues that Read is the victim of a conspiracy among law enforcement and party attendees.

The trial is ongoing, with Gallagher expected to return to the stand for further questioning on Tuesday morning.