DEDHAM, Mass. — Karen Read has filed a lawsuit against the Massachusetts State Police and the Canton Police Department, alleging she was wrongfully prosecuted in the death of her boyfriend, Boston Police Officer John O’Keefe.
The lawsuit was filed nearly a year after Read was acquitted of the most serious charges against her, including second-degree murder, manslaughter, and leaving the scene of a fatal accident. Prosecutors had accused Read of striking O’Keefe with her vehicle during a snowstorm in January 2022 and leaving him outside a Canton home where he was later found dead. Read maintained her innocence throughout the case.
In the lawsuit, Read claims investigators engaged in a flawed and biased investigation that resulted in years of legal battles, millions of dollars in legal expenses, damage to her reputation, and emotional distress. The suit specifically criticizes former Massachusetts State Police Trooper Michael Proctor and former Canton Police Officer Sean Goode, alleging they conducted a compromised investigation and improperly targeted her.
The lawsuit references text messages sent by investigators that became a major focus during Read’s criminal trials. Massachusetts State Police officials have previously condemned the messages, describing them as unacceptable and inconsistent with department standards. Proctor was later terminated from the agency.
Read’s legal team alleges investigators failed to properly examine alternative theories regarding O’Keefe’s death and did not thoroughly process the home where he was found. Prosecutors have consistently denied allegations of a cover-up, maintaining that evidence supported their theory that O’Keefe was struck by Read’s vehicle.
Town officials in Canton said they have not yet been formally served with the lawsuit but expressed confidence in the department’s current leadership. Read is seeking unspecified damages and attorney’s fees as the case moves forward in court.
The lawsuit marks the latest chapter in one of Massachusetts’ most closely watched criminal cases, which has generated national attention and ongoing debate about police investigations, prosecutorial conduct, and accountability within the criminal justice system.