Karen Reed Reflects on Life After Acquittal in Ex-Boyfriend’s Death
Karen Reed, recently acquitted of murder in the death of her former boyfriend, Boston police officer John O’Keefe, shared that dining out has become less of a financial burden for her. She mentioned on Friday’s “Today” show, during a conversation with co-host Craig Melvin, that she’s been met with mostly positive reactions since the jury’s decision.
“You know, there are many who look at me and think, ‘Oh, there’s that woman who killed her ex-boyfriend and got away with it,'” Melvin noted. He pressed her on how she copes with the public perception, asking about living with such a stigma despite the jury’s verdict.
Reed’s Experience After the Trial
In response, Reed said that she hasn’t encountered many people who hold that view. “I don’t pay for my meals everywhere I go,” she clarified, “whether it’s grocery stores, restaurants, or hotels. My parents often help me with groceries too.” She recounted that a significant show of support only happened once, outside the Dedham courthouse during her trial.
Reed did acknowledge that, despite some community support, her professional license remains suspended, and she is currently unemployed. “I’m still working on this case. We’ve engaged civil attorneys to tackle all the complexities,” she explained.
Prosecutors in Massachusetts have tried Reed twice regarding the incident. They accused her of hitting O’Keefe with her vehicle and attempting to flee the scene, leading to his death during a snowstorm in January 2022.
Defense arguments pointed to issues in the investigation, particularly involving lead detective Michael Proctor, who lost his job for sharing inappropriate messages about the case. In her first trial, the jury was unable to reach a consensus, but in the second trial, she was acquitted of murder charges, though convicted for drunk driving.
As Reed’s legal battles continue, including a lawsuit against the Massachusetts State Police and the Canton Police Department for alleged misconduct, she stressed that her focus, for now, is on regaining some semblance of normalcy. “This lawsuit was always part of our strategy,” she noted, emphasizing her need for freedom to make further moves.
Her attorney, Alan Jackson, highlighted the importance of exposing systemic issues within Massachusetts law enforcement as part of their lawsuit, stating that the core aim of their action goes beyond monetary restitution. Reed is also facing a wrongful death lawsuit from O’Keefe’s family.
When asked about her interactions with O’Keefe’s family, Reed had little to say. “I have nothing to add. I spent years with them and believed I was generous with my time. We shared a lot of moments together,” she remarked.
