The Massachusetts State Police have officially broken their silence following the high-profile Karen Read verdict, a case that captured national attention. On Wednesday, a jury acquitted Read of second-degree murder and manslaughter in the death of her boyfriend, Boston police officer John O’Keefe. She was, however, found guilty of drunken driving, a lesser charge.
In a public statement on Thursday morning, Col. Geoffrey Noble, head of the State Police, began by offering sincere condolences to the family and loved ones of John O’Keefe. He acknowledged the emotional toll the two lengthy trials had taken on everyone involved.
Commitment to Accountability and Training
Colonel Noble emphasized that the department has taken the past three years as an opportunity for reflection and reform. He stated, “Under my direction as Colonel, the State Police has, and will continue to, improve in these regards. Our focus remains on delivering excellent police services that reflect the value of professionalism and maintain public trust.”
Significantly, Noble confirmed his decision to terminate Trooper Michael Proctor, who led the original investigation into O’Keefe’s death. Proctor was dismissed prior to Read’s retrial after a disciplinary process that reviewed his conduct, including unprofessional and offensive text messages about Read that became key evidence for the defense.
Expanded Training and Structural Reform
As part of the department’s reforms, Noble announced new, mandatory in-service training for all investigative personnel. This training covers vital areas such as:
✅ Courtroom testimony
✅ Proper social media and phone usage
✅ Case management and documentation
✅ DNA processing policies
Additionally, the Division of Investigative Services has been restructured to increase supervision and improve internal accountability. These steps are designed to prevent similar controversies in future investigations and to restore public confidence.
Verdict Spurs Public Reaction
Karen Read’s acquittal sparked strong reactions both inside and outside the courtroom. As the not-guilty verdicts were read, cheers erupted from supporters gathered outside. Read, flanked by her legal team and family, exited the courthouse smiling.
Her legal team claimed victory in a case they’ve long argued was a deliberate cover-up. They maintained that Read was framed by fellow officers, asserting that O’Keefe died inside the home of another officer before being placed outside. Prosecutors insisted that Read had struck O’Keefe with her SUV and left him outside in freezing temperatures.
“No one has fought harder for justice for John O’Keefe than I have,” Read said in an emotional statement outside the courthouse.
Prosecutors and Family Remain Silent
While the defense celebrated, the O’Keefe family exited quietly, many with heads bowed. The prosecution team, including special prosecutor Hank Brennan, ADA Adam Lally, and District Attorney Michael Morrissey, have not yet issued public statements in response to the outcome.
A family friend described the verdict as “devastating” for O’Keefe’s relatives, who have now endured a 3.5-year legal and emotional ordeal. The case has divided public opinion, inspired national debate, and left lingering questions about the handling of the investigation.
