Karen Read's ongoing legal battle took center stage in Dedham, Massachusetts, as the court convened to discuss the inclusion of a controversial dog bite expert in her retrial. The hearing, presided over by Judge Beverly Cannone, also addressed the scheduling of the retrial, which has been postponed to April 1, 2025.
Key Takeaways
- Karen Read's retrial has been rescheduled to April 1, 2025.
- The defense is fighting to include Dr. Marie Russell, a dog bite expert, in the retrial.
- Prosecutors are attempting to block Russell's testimony, questioning her qualifications.
The case revolves around the death of John O'Keefe, a Boston police officer, who was allegedly struck by Read's SUV and left to die in a snowbank after a night of drinking. Read's first trial ended in a hung jury, prompting the need for a retrial.
During the recent hearing, Dr. Marie Russell testified about the injuries sustained by O'Keefe, asserting that they were consistent with a dog attack. This testimony is crucial for Read's defense, which posits that O'Keefe was attacked by a dog rather than being struck by her vehicle.
The prosecution, however, is challenging Russell's qualifications, arguing that her expertise in dog bites is outdated and insufficient. They claim that her primary experience dates back to 1996 and primarily involves police dogs, which they argue does not apply to the current case.
Judge Cannone previously allowed Russell to testify in the first trial, but the prosecution's renewed efforts to exclude her from the retrial have led to this latest hearing. The judge is expected to make a ruling on Russell's testimony soon.
Background of the Case
- Incident Date: January 29, 2022
- Charges Against Read: Second-degree murder, manslaughter while operating under the influence, and leaving the scene of personal injury and death.
- Defense Argument: Read claims she is innocent and that O'Keefe was killed inside a home before being left outside.
The defense's strategy hinges on establishing reasonable doubt regarding Read's involvement in O'Keefe's death. They argue that the injuries he sustained could have been inflicted by a dog, which would absolve Read of the charges against her.
Current Developments
- The retrial was initially set for January 27, 2025, but both the prosecution and defense agreed to postpone it to allow for better preparation.
- The Supreme Judicial Court of Massachusetts is currently reviewing whether jurors from the first trial will be questioned about their deliberations, which could impact the retrial process.
- Read's legal team is also pursuing a motion to dismiss some charges based on double jeopardy, arguing that jurors indicated they had reached a consensus on certain charges during the first trial.
As the case unfolds, both sides are preparing for a complex legal battle that will likely draw significant public attention. The outcome of the retrial could have profound implications for Read, who maintains her innocence amid serious allegations.
Sources
- Live updates: Karen Read's dog bite expert testifies in hearing, WCVB.
- Watch live: Karen Read returns to court for hearing on dog bite expert, new retrial date – Boston 25 News, Boston 25 News.
- Watch Live: Karen Read case back in court for arguments on dog bite expert, trial schedule - CBS Boston, CBS News.
- Karen Read’s defense team fighting to have dog bite expert testify in retrial - Boston News, Weather, Sports | WHDH 7News, WHDH.
- Karen Read's lawyers push back on efforts to block dog bite expert in retrial, MSN.
