Karen Read Case Lead Investigator Michael Proctor Speaks Out in TV Interview

Former Massachusetts State Police Trooper Michael Proctor, who led the investigation in the Karen Read case, is finally opening up about the controversial trial after being fired from the state police force earlier this year. Proctor’s interview will be featured on ABC News’ 20/20, airing at 8 p.m. EST this Wednesday, right after Karen Read was acquitted of murder and hit-and-run charges in the death of her boyfriend, Boston Police Officer John O’Keefe.

ABC News Chief National Correspondent Matt Gutman will be conducting the interview with Proctor, along with discussions with O’Keefe’s best friend Brendan Kane and Alan Jackson, one of Read’s defense attorneys. Proctor’s dismissal stemmed from the revelation that he had sent inappropriate texts about Read during her 2024 trial, where he called her a “whack job” and expressed disturbing wishes regarding her wellbeing.

O’Keefe’s tragic death in front of a Canton home owned by retired Boston Police officer Brian Albert led to Read’s subsequent arrest. However, after a mistrial in her initial trial, the recent verdict by a Norfolk County Superior Court jury found Read not guilty of the most serious charges. She was only convicted of operating under the influence of alcohol and sentenced to a year of probation.

Throughout the legal proceedings, prosecutors contended that Read accidentally struck O’Keefe with her car while dropping him off during a snowstorm. Conversely, Read’s defense team raised the possibility that O’Keefe had been attacked inside the Alberts’ home before his death.

For those who miss the 20/20 interview, it will be available for streaming on Hulu the following day. This case has sparked various reactions from experts, officials, and supporters alike, highlighting the complexities and emotions involved in this high-profile trial.