Karen Read Trial: Michael Proctor Takes the Stand-Controversial Testimony and Contentious Hearings Highlight Day's Proceedings

Testimony in the Karen Read trial, a Mansfield woman charged with the death of her boyfriend, Boston police officer John O'Keefe, continued with revealing cross-examination of Massachusetts State Police Trooper Michael Proctor and a contentious hearing about defense witnesses.

At 9:10 a.m., the day began with a contentious hearing where Norfolk County prosecutor Laura McLaughlin accused the defense team of delaying witness information. McLaughlin stated the defense's late synopsis was intended to "ambush the Commonwealth," calling for the exclusion of testimony from Dr. Marie Russell, who is expected to discuss O'Keefe’s injuries.

Defense attorney David Yannetti rebutted, labeling the prosecution's claims as “outrageous and false.” Judge Beverly Cannone, seeking to maintain order, requested Yannetti to summarize his points without hyperbole. Yannetti clarified that the defense would pursue the theory that O’Keefe was attacked by a dog, contrary to earlier indications.   
Proctor's cross-examination continued with scrutiny of his unprofessional comments, including calling Read a “whack job” and making disparaging remarks about her medical condition. Despite admitting the comments were inappropriate, Proctor maintained they did not affect the case's factual evidence.

Prosecutor Adam Lally later had Proctor read more text messages aloud, including a conversation where Proctor shared his belief that Read hit O’Keefe with her car. The texts highlighted a casual, and at times offensive, tone regarding the investigation. 

Proctor's unprofessionalism was further underscored by a June 9, 2022, text to his wife about Read’s arrest: “We’re going to lock this wack job up.” 

The court also reviewed text messages between Proctor and his sister, Courtney, about the case. Despite his close ties to key individuals involved in the investigation, Proctor claimed these relationships did not influence his work.

Throughout the testimony, Proctor reiterated that his comments and personal feelings did not compromise the investigation's integrity or the evidence gathered. However, the defense argued that such unprofessional behavior cast doubt on Proctor's objectivity.
The trial, which hinges on whether Read intentionally struck O’Keefe with her vehicle, will continue with further testimony and cross-examinations. As the courtroom drama unfolds, the defense remains focused on undermining the credibility of the prosecution’s witnesses to strengthen Read’s case.

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