Additional Coverage:
- Mother of slain Boston police officer sends wordless message to Karen Read in courtroom showdown (foxnews.com)
Dedham, MA – The ongoing trial of Karen Read, accused of killing Boston Police Officer John O’Keefe, has been marked by courtroom tensions, particularly between the families of the defendant and the victim. Body language expert Susan Constantine observed what she described as a chilling look from O’Keefe’s mother, Peggy O’Keefe, directed at Read during a sidebar.
Constantine interpreted the look as conveying a message of suspicion and distrust. Peggy O’Keefe has been a constant presence in the courtroom, her grief palpable.
In contrast, William Read, Karen Read’s father, has adopted a more outgoing approach. He has been seen interacting with supporters and speaking to the press, expressing confidence in his daughter’s defense team and criticizing the prosecution’s case. He has characterized the proceedings as a “persecution” of his daughter.
This difference in demeanor extends to the defendants themselves. While Peggy O’Keefe remains stoic in her grief, William Read has been seen shaking hands and taking photos with supporters, even engaging in lighthearted banter. Constantine noted the stark contrast between the parents, highlighting Peggy O’Keefe’s visible distress and William Read’s cordiality.
The trial continues as the defense presents its case. The jury will ultimately decide Karen Read’s fate, but the emotional undercurrents within the courtroom add another layer to this already complex case.