Karen Reed has publicly addressed her acquittal in the case concerning the death of Boston police officer John O’Keefe, expressing her intention to counter those who accused her of framing him. She plans to pursue a civil lawsuit and is critical of Massachusetts prosecutors.
During an appearance on “The Howie Carr Show,” Reed stated, “You lost. You lost a lot of time. And you know what you did.”
Accompanied by her attorney, Alan Jackson, Reed is considering actions against entities like the Massachusetts State Police, the Norfolk County District Attorney’s Office, and other individuals connected to the investigation.
“We have our reasons to pursue this… We’re exploring all avenues; nothing’s off the table,” Jackson noted.
After the verdict, Reed reflected on her life, which deviated significantly from her expectations. She mentioned experiencing significant personal losses, especially in regard to her career.
“That job wasn’t just a job; it represented my career, and I miss it,” she added.
Additionally, she highlighted the loss of her home, forced to sell it during the two trials. Reed expressed feeling a loss of independence. “I haven’t driven in four years. I felt like I was trapped, almost like a prisoner due to the Massachusetts authorities,” she lamented.
Despite these challenges, she focuses on what matters most. Currently living with her parents, whom she describes as “the strongest people I know,” Reed cherishes her time with them, worried about their health as they age. “I feel fortunate. I’ve lost a lot, but I still have my parents, and I’m grateful for their presence,” she shared.
Jackson asserted that Reed has faced “double jeopardy” after being tried twice for the same allegations, emphasizing that she has been jailed twice, yet the presiding judges found no conflict in the case. He also criticized a police witness, Boston officer Kelly Dever, accusing her of lying about key memories.
Concerning O’Keefe’s death, Jackson remarked, “The true culprit behind John O’Keefe’s death remains unpunished. It’s unlikely that justice will be served.”
Reed and Jackson directed strong criticisms at Norfolk County District Attorney Michael Morrissey, with Jackson stating, “The community simply doesn’t want you anymore.”
When asked about reports of actress Elizabeth Banks portraying her in an upcoming Amazon series, Reed expressed surprise. “That decision was never mine. I haven’t spoken to her. This is my personal story,” she revealed.
Looking to the future, Reed is uncertain but motivated to share her narrative. “I don’t always know what’s next,” she admitted. “But I want to write a book. More people need to hear my story.”
For the moment, she is concentrating on rebuilding her life. “Everything is on the table,” Jackson reiterated. “Everyone is a potential target here.”
Initially, Reed faced multiple charges, including murder, related to the death of officer O’Keefe in a snowstorm, which prosecutors claimed was the result of her running him over with her SUV. Her defense, however, argued against her culpability, suggesting flaws in the investigation and proposing alternative suspects.
Ultimately, after two trials, she was found not guilty of murder-related charges. Although she was convicted of driving while intoxicated, her civil liability regarding O’Keefe’s death is ongoing, with her legal team challenging an illegal death lawsuit filed by his family.
The case has also sparked calls among Canton, Massachusetts residents for an independent police review. An internal audit revealed procedural lapses but found no conspiracy against Reed. Furthermore, questions arose about the conduct of a lead detective, Michael Proctor, who was dismissed after mismanagement of confidential information; he is now suing for wrongful termination.
