Supporters React to Acquittal in the Boston Officer’s Case

A close associate of Officer John O’Keefe criticized Karen Read for claiming she has fought tirelessly for justice since her recent acquittal on charges related to his death. Read was accused of hitting O’Keefe with her vehicle and leaving him in the snow, which resulted in his body being discovered the following morning.

John Jackson, a longtime friend of O’Keefe, told reporters that Read was not there when he desperately needed her, questioning her integrity during the period she claims to have fought for justice. “The irony is, how hard was she fighting in those early hours of January 29, 2022?” he remarked. Jackson emphasized that evidence indicates her involvement over others, feeling her supporters have overlooked critical details.

Karen Read outside court after her acquittal — Karen Read addresses supporters after her verdict, claiming to have fought for justice.

Read, having only faced a conviction for DUI which resulted in probation, celebrated the court’s decision and declared, “No one has fought harder for justice for John O’Keefe than I have.” Her first trial ended in a hung jury before ending in this acquittal.

Despite her victory, Jackson expressed disappointment, stating that O’Keefe’s family was “surprised and heartbroken” by the verdict focusing solely on her drunken driving conviction. He asserted that the evidence points more convincingly towards her involvement in the incident.

In the months following, a crowd of Read’s supporters gathered outside court, some wearing pink and making signs of support, including a silent “I love you” hand gesture in American Sign Language. Jackson criticized this show of support, questioning the supporter’s motives and suggesting they may have suspended critical thinking to rally behind Read.

Read making a hand gesture at supporters — Read demonstrates an “I love you” sign to her supporters outside the courthouse.

Jackson also pointed out that some supporters have harassed O’Keefe’s family and friends during the lengthy legal process, including doxxing those who opposed Read. He speculated that this support might stem from a desire to belong to something greater, regardless of the evidence pointing to her.

He recalled O’Keefe as a hero who took on the responsibility of raising his orphaned niece and nephew without hesitation. “He didn’t think about it. He just did it,” Jackson said, emphasizing his admiration for his late friend.