The community of Canton was “deeply affected” by Karen Read’s trial, an official from the town said after a jury found her not guilty of murder.
“The town of Canton acknowledges today’s verdict in the commonwealth’s case against Karen Read,” said John McCourt, the Canton select board chairman.
“The town respects the legal process and the role of the jury in weighing the facts and rendering a verdict. We thank the members of the jury for their service and attention over the past several weeks,” McCourt’s statement continued.
“This case has been the subject of intense public interest, scrutiny and speculation for three years. Our community has been deeply affected,” it read.
“Today’s outcome may bring a sense of relief to some and continue to raise questions for others. We encourage members of the community to move forward together, treating one another with respect through civil, constructive dialogue.”
Read, 45, was charged with second-degree murder, manslaughter while operating under the influence and leaving the scene of an accident causing injury or death in the 2022 death of her boyfriend, Boston Police Officer John O’Keefe.
The jury of seven women and five men acquitted Read of second-degree murder, manslaughter, and leaving the scene of an accident on Wednesday after deliberating for four days.
Read was convicted of the least serious charge, operating under the influence.
The verdict came after 31 days of testimony in Read’s retrial. Read’s first trial ended in a hung jury and a mistrial on July 1, 2024.
The case led to “Free Karen Read” protests outside the Dedham courthouse, where the trial occurred nearly every day since April 22, rain or shine. Protests intensified as the retrial neared a conclusion.
After the verdicts were read, the crowd cheered so loudly it could be heard in the second-story courtroom.
