Judge and Defense Attorney Clash Over Verdict Slip in Karen Read Murder Trial

Tensions rise as jurors deliberate Karen Read's murder trial, with attorney arguing over verdict slip lacking a "not guilty" option.

As jurors returned to court for Day 2 of deliberations in the high-profile murder trial of Karen Read, a heated argument ensued between Judge Beverly Cannone and one of Read’s defense attorneys over the verdict slip.

Lack of "Not Guilty" Option Raises Concerns

Alan Jackson, the defense attorney who delivered closing arguments, expressed concern over the absence of a “not guilty” box to check on the lesser charges Read is facing, including involuntary manslaughter and motor vehicle homicide. Jackson emphasized the importance of providing jurors with the option to consider a not guilty verdict, stating, “They need to see there is not a guilty option.”

Contentious Exchange in Courtroom

The exchange between Jackson and Cannone became increasingly heated, with Jackson pressing the issue of the absence of a not guilty option on the verdict form. Cannone defended the form, stating, “It’s appropriate. It’s appropriate,” leading to a continued back-and-forth between the two.

The contentious argument culminated in Jackson seeking clarity on how jurors could determine a not guilty verdict for involuntary manslaughter without the corresponding option on the form. Despite the ongoing debate, Cannone maintained that it was ultimately the jurors’ decision to make.

Unresolved Dispute

The dispute over the verdict form persisted, with Cannone turning to another attorney and making a remark that seemed to evoke surprise. This prompted Cannone to abruptly announce the conclusion of the court proceedings for the day.

Accusations and Charges

Karen Read, a 44-year-old resident of Mansfield, stands accused of striking her Boston police officer boyfriend, John O’Keefe, with her car and leaving him for dead in the snow in Canton in January 2022. In addition to the charges related to O’Keefe’s death, Read is also facing allegations of second-degree murder.

The defense has presented a case suggesting that Read is being framed for the crime, adding another layer of complexity to the high-profile trial.

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