In the ongoing Karen Read murder trial, tensions flared in Norfolk Superior Court as Judge Beverly Cannone and defense attorney Alan Jackson engaged in a heated exchange. The jury, meanwhile, continued its deliberations for the second day. Jackson raised concerns about the verdict slips given to the jury, leading to a back-and-forth with Cannone. At one point, Read appeared to smile and shake her head, which prompted Cannone to scold her. The judge questioned Read’s amusement, to which Read did not respond. Cannone then abruptly ended the discussion, declaring, “Alright, we’re done.”
The case centers around Read’s alleged involvement in the death of her boyfriend, Boston police officer John O’Keefe. Prosecutors accuse Read of hitting O’Keefe with her SUV and leaving him to die in a snowbank outside a Canton home. Read has pleaded not guilty to charges that include second-degree murder, with her defense team claiming she is being framed. In contrast to the prosecution’s theory, the defense argues that O’Keefe died after a fight inside the home of Brian and Nicole Albert.
The trial, which began in late April and has spanned over two months, has witnessed numerous eye-opening moments and featured blockbuster testimonies from key witnesses. Throughout the proceedings, a devoted group of Read supporters gathered daily outside the courthouse, chanting “Free Karen Read.”
As the jury deliberates, legal analysts anticipate that the case’s outcome will hinge on scientific evidence. Tom Hoopes, a legal analyst for 7NEWS, remarked that both sides presented compelling closing arguments but emphasized the significance of the scientific aspect. With more than 60 witnesses called by the prosecution and only six by the defense, jurors face the challenging task of sifting through extensive testimony and evidence.
On Wednesday morning, Read arrived at the courthouse accompanied by her lawyers and family members. The jury reentered the courtroom shortly after 9:15 a.m., and Judge Cannone asked them a series of routine questions, including whether they had encountered any information about the case the previous night. All jurors responded negatively.
During the proceedings, defense attorney Alan Jackson raised a significant issue concerning the verdict slip for the manslaughter charge. The slip only provided one space to check “not guilty,” despite two lesser charges— involuntary manslaughter and motor vehicle homicide—being listed in addition to the primary manslaughter charge. Jackson argued that this setup was inappropriate, comparing it to the court directing a verdict toward the subordinate charges. However, Judge Cannone disagreed, asserting that the slip was appropriate. Jackson’s co-counsel, Yanetti, chimed in, stating that he had not seen a verdict slip without the option of “not guilty.” Despite the disagreement, Cannone maintained her stance.
As of 11:20 a.m., deliberations were still ongoing, with no verdict announced. The jury is expected to continue deliberating until 4 p.m. As this is a developing story, viewers are encouraged to stay tuned to 7NEWS for the latest updates.
In conclusion, the Karen Read murder trial has been marked by intense courtroom exchanges, impassioned defense arguments, and a significant focus on scientific evidence. The case has captivated public attention, with supporters rallying behind Read outside the courthouse. While the jury diligently deliberates, legal experts anticipate a close decision due to the complexity of the evidence and testimony presented. As the trial unfolds, 7NEWS remains committed to providing up-to-date coverage on this developing story.
