Karen Read expressed her relief and gratitude after being acquitted of her Boston police officer boyfriend’s murder more than three years after his death. Her first words outside court were filled with emotion as she proclaimed, “No one has fought harder for justice for John O’Keefe than I have, and my team.” She also took the opportunity to thank her supporters for their unwavering support during the lengthy legal battle.

Despite facing serious charges, Read was only convicted of a drunken driving offense in her second trial, narrowly avoiding charges like second-degree murder, manslaughter, and leaving the scene of an incident resulting in death.

“I couldn’t have done this without the incredible support I received financially and emotionally over nearly four years,” she added, addressing her fans with appreciation.

As she exited the Norfolk County courthouse in Dedham, her right hand on her heart, cheers erupted from her supporters, marking the culmination of a long and complex legal saga. The case stemmed from an incident in 2022, when O’Keefe was found unresponsive in a snowbank. Prosecutors alleged Read hit him with her car following a night of partying and fled the scene, while her defense contended she was innocent and being unfairly targeted due to police misconduct and conspiracy.