Karen Read, a former adjunct professor and financial analyst, has been acquitted of second-degree murder charges in the death of her boyfriend, Boston police officer John O'Keefe. The jury's decision, delivered in a Massachusetts court, also cleared Read of vehicular manslaughter, though she was convicted of operating a vehicle under the influence of alcohol. This conviction results in a one-year probation period, allowing her to avoid prison time.

Public Frenzy and Media Attention

The trial captivated audiences nationwide, fueled by a fervent TikTok following and multiple true-crime documentaries. Supporters, many dressed in pink—Read's favorite color—gathered outside the courthouse, erupting in cheers as the verdict was announced. The case has been a focal point for discussions on the criminal justice system, with some seeing Read as a victim of a flawed system.

Defense and Prosecution Arguments

Read's defense team argued that she was framed by police officers, suggesting a conspiracy to cover up O'Keefe's death. They claimed that O'Keefe was killed inside a fellow officer's home and later placed outside. In contrast, prosecutors depicted Read as a scorned lover who, after a night of drinking, struck O'Keefe with her SUV and left him to die in a snowbank. The first trial ended in a mistrial, but the defense's narrative gained traction in the retrial.

Impact and Reactions

The case has sparked debates on legal conspiracy theories and the portrayal of women in the criminal justice system. Shira Diner, a law lecturer, noted the rarity of women of means facing serious charges, which contributed to the public's fascination. Read's ability to engage with the media and maintain a narrative throughout the trial was also highlighted as a significant factor in the case's prominence.