Trial Deliberations Begin in Boston Police Officer's Murder Case

Jury weighs evidence against Karen Read, accused of killing boyfriend John O'Keefe

Closing arguments scheduled for Tuesday

BOSTON, April 29, 2024 (AP) - The jury in the murder trial of Karen Read, who is accused of killing her Boston police officer boyfriend, John O'Keefe, began deliberating on Monday after hearing closing arguments from both sides.

Read is charged with first-degree murder in the death of O'Keefe, who was found dead in his home in April 2023. Prosecutors allege that Read struck O'Keefe with her SUV and left the scene, while the defense contends that O'Keefe's death was an accident.

During the trial, jurors heard testimony from numerous witnesses, including O'Keefe's colleagues, friends, and family members. The prosecution presented evidence of text messages between Read and O'Keefe that suggested tensions in their relationship, while the defense argued that the texts were taken out of context.

The jury is now tasked with deciding whether Read is guilty of murder. Closing arguments are scheduled to begin on Tuesday, after which the jury will retire to deliberate further.