Alan Jackson, who previously led the legal team securing Karen Read’s acquittal in her murder retrial, announced on Tuesday that he and colleague Elizabeth Little will join Read’s defense team in a related wrongful death lawsuit. Jackson expressed his unwavering support, stating, “This fight isn’t over. Not until every lie is exposed and every wrong is made right.”
In June, a jury found Read not guilty of second-degree murder and other serious charges after she was accused of hitting Boston police Officer John O’Keefe with her SUV in a drunken condition. The defense asserts that she has been wrongfully accused, claiming that O’Keefe was fatally beaten and that his body was subsequently placed where it was discovered.
Read’s first trial ended with a hung jury, and O’Keefe’s family is pursuing a wrongful death lawsuit that is currently pending in Plymouth Superior Court. Read’s legal team has indicated they seek to dismiss the civil complaint, with the next hearing scheduled for September 22. A trial date has yet to be established.
Jackson previously confirmed his intent to join the civil defense team during an interview, expressing optimism about their future efforts together: “The band is not just staying together; we’re getting back together. We’re intending on writing a few new chapters.”
This case highlights ongoing challenges in the legal system, especially regarding perceptions of justice and accountability. The determination of Read’s defense team to confront what they view as an abuse of power may resonate with those who value transparency and fairness in legal proceedings.