Karen Read Trial: Jennifer McCabe’s Testimony Resumes
On April 30, 2025, the high-profile murder retrial of Karen Read entered its seventh day in Norfolk Superior Court, Dedham, Massachusetts. The day’s proceedings were marked by the continued testimony of Jennifer McCabe, a key prosecution witness and friend of the defendant.
Background of the Case
Karen Read, 45, is accused of second-degree murder, manslaughter while operating under the influence, and leaving the scene of a personal injury and death. The charges stem from the January 29, 2022, death of her boyfriend, Boston Police Officer John O’Keefe, whose body was found outside a home in Canton, Massachusetts, during a snowstorm. Prosecutors allege that Read struck O’Keefe with her SUV after a night of drinking and left him to die in the snow. Read has pleaded not guilty to all charges, asserting that she is being framed and that O’Keefe was killed inside the house by other individuals.
Jennifer McCabe’s Role
Jennifer McCabe, a friend of both Read and O’Keefe, testified that she received a frantic call from Read early on the morning of January 29, 2022. During the call, Read reportedly expressed concern that she might have hit O’Keefe with her vehicle. McCabe, along with another friend, Kerry Roberts, accompanied Read to 34 Fairview Road, where they discovered O’Keefe’s body in the snow. McCabe described Read as hysterical upon finding the body, repeatedly asking, “Did I hit him?”.
Controversial Google Search
A significant point of contention in the trial is a Google search for “how long to die in cold” made from McCabe’s phone. Prosecutors argue that the search was conducted at Read’s request after discovering O’Keefe’s body, suggesting consciousness of guilt. However, the defense contends that the search occurred hours earlier, implying potential involvement by McCabe in a cover-up.
Defense’s Position
Read’s defense team argues that O’Keefe was killed inside the house at 34 Fairview Road and that evidence was manipulated to implicate Read. They point to inconsistencies in witness testimonies and allege a conspiracy involving law enforcement and other parties to frame Read.
Public Interest and Media Coverage
The trial has garnered significant public and media attention, with live streams and daily coverage by various news outlets. The case’s complexities, including allegations of a cover-up and conflicting testimonies, have fueled widespread interest and debate.
Watch Live: Jennifer McCabe’s Testimony
For those interested in following the trial proceedings, Jennifer McCabe’s testimony can be viewed live:
Key Points from McCabe’s Testimony
- Night of the Incident: McCabe testified that she, her husband, and others went to a party at 34 Fairview Road after leaving a bar. She expected Read and O’Keefe to join but stated they never entered the house.
- Discovery of the Body: McCabe recounted that Read was hysterical upon finding O’Keefe’s body in the snow, repeatedly asking, “Did I hit him?” and attempting CPR despite O’Keefe being unresponsive.
- Google Search Controversy: A significant point of contention is a Google search for “how long to die in cold” made from McCabe’s phone. The prosecution claims it was made after discovering the body, while the defense argues it occurred hours earlier, suggesting possible foreknowledge.
Trial Developments
- Digital Evidence: Forensic experts analyzed cell phone data to determine O’Keefe’s movements and whether he entered the house. The data’s interpretation is disputed between prosecution and defense.
- Defense Strategy: The defense alleges a cover-up involving law enforcement officers present at the party, suggesting that O’Keefe was beaten inside the house and his body placed outside.
- Public Interest: The case has garnered significant media attention, with public opinion divided and intense scrutiny of the legal proceedings.
Legal Developments
Judge Beverly Cannone ruled to allow crash reconstruction experts from ARCCA to testify for the defense, despite prosecution objections regarding missed discovery deadlines and deleted communications. These experts are expected to support the defense’s claim that Read’s SUV did not strike O’Keefe.
Public and Media Attention
The trial has garnered significant media coverage and public interest, with live streams available for those following the proceedings. Supporters of Read have organized protests, asserting her innocence and alleging misconduct by investigators.
