Karen Read’s Legal Saga Unfolds with New Twists in 2026
Boston, MA – January 9, 2026 – Karen Read, the former Boston police officer’s girlfriend acquitted of murder charges in June 2025, continues to navigate a web of civil lawsuits and public scrutiny. Her 2021 Lexus SUV, a key piece of evidence in her trials, is set for auction this month, while a wrongful death suit filed by the O’Keefe family remains pending. Read has also filed her own lawsuit accusing law enforcement of misconduct.
Background on the Case
Karen Read was charged in 2022 with second-degree murder in the death of Boston Police Officer John O’Keefe, who was found unresponsive in Canton, Massachusetts, on January 29, 2022. Prosecutors alleged Read struck O’Keefe with her SUV after a night of drinking and left him to die in the snow. Read maintained her innocence, claiming she was framed by a conspiracy involving law enforcement and others at the scene.
Her first trial in 2024 ended in a mistrial due to a hung jury. In June 2025, a second trial acquitted her of murder and manslaughter but convicted her of misdemeanor drunken driving, for which she received probation. The case sparked widespread debate over police integrity and evidence handling.
Recent Developments
In January 2026, Read’s 2021 Lexus LX 570, impounded since 2022, is scheduled for auction on January 30 at JJManning Auctioneers in Canton. The vehicle, which has about 12,000 miles, was repaired and detailed after years in storage. Auction proceeds will benefit Read, who faces significant legal debts from her defense. Kelley Blue Book estimates a similar model at around $73,000, but its notoriety could drive bids higher.
Read has endorsed Adam Deitch, a former federal prosecutor running for Norfolk County district attorney. She contributed $1,000 to his campaign, along with her father and attorneys Alan Jackson and David Yannetti. Deitch investigated Norfolk prosecutors’ handling of Read’s case and is campaigning on transparency.
A virtual hearing in Read’s wrongful death civil case, filed by the O’Keefe family, was postponed from January 6 to February 3, 2026. The suit alleges Read’s negligence caused O’Keefe’s death. Read’s team sought documents from the Norfolk DA’s office and others but reached an agreement on some requests.
Key Facts and Timeline
| Event | Date | Details |
|---|---|---|
| John O’Keefe’s Death | January 29, 2022 | O’Keefe found dead in Canton snowbank after bar-hopping with Read. |
| Read Arrested | February 2, 2022 | Charged with manslaughter, motor vehicle homicide, and leaving the scene. |
| First Trial Mistrial | July 2024 | Hung jury after two months; retrial ordered. |
| Second Trial Acquittal | June 2025 | Acquitted of murder/manslaughter; guilty of OUI misdemeanor. |
| SUV Auction | January 30, 2026 | Vehicle sold live; proceeds to Read. |
| Lawsuit Hearing Postponed | January 6, 2026 (rescheduled to February 3) | Wrongful death suit by O’Keefe family delayed. |
Frequently Asked Questions
What was Karen Read convicted of?
Read was convicted of operating under the influence (OUI), a misdemeanor, in her 2025 retrial, receiving one year of probation.
What is the status of the wrongful death lawsuit?
The suit, filed by the O’Keefe family in 2024, claims Read caused O’Keefe’s death through negligence. A hearing was postponed in January 2026.
Has Karen Read filed her own lawsuit?
Yes, Read sued Massachusetts State Police and others in 2025, alleging gross misconduct and framing in a federal court.