Karen Read, acquitted of murder charges in the death of her former boyfriend, Boston police officer John O'Keefe, stated in a recent interview that she receives free meals and discounts at various establishments. During her appearance on the 'Today' show, she noted that the public response to her acquittal has been largely positive. Read mentioned that she has not encountered many individuals who believe she got away with the crime, despite the jury's verdict. She indicated that she enjoys support from the community, stating, "I don't pay for meals... I get discounts everywhere."
Read's acquittal followed two trials related to the January 2022 incident where O'Keefe was found dead outside a colleague's home during a blizzard. Prosecutors accused Read of hitting him with her vehicle and fleeing the scene. Her defense highlighted issues with the investigation, including the conduct of the lead detective.
Although acquitted of homicide charges, Read is still facing a wrongful death lawsuit from O'Keefe's family and has not had her professional license restored. She is currently pursuing legal action against the Massachusetts State Police and the Canton Police Department, alleging mishandling of the investigation and a culture of bias within the law enforcement system. Read's attorney stated that the lawsuit aims to expose institutional corruption in Massachusetts law enforcement.