Karen Read, recently acquitted of murder charges in the death of her former boyfriend, Boston Police Officer John O’Keefe, is now requesting a Massachusetts court to dismiss the wrongful death lawsuit filed against her by O’Keefe’s family. This legal move follows her acquittal last month and involves a different legal team than the one that successfully defended her in the criminal trial.

Background of the Case

The wrongful death lawsuit was initiated by John O’Keefe’s family, naming Karen Read and two bars the couple visited before his death. The lawsuit seeks damages exceeding $50,000. The O’Keefes allege that Read, along with the establishments, contributed to the circumstances leading to O’Keefe’s death. The legal proceedings were paused until the conclusion of Read’s second trial, which resulted in her acquittal on all homicide-related charges. However, she was found guilty of a drunken driving offense and received probation.

Legal Proceedings and Arguments

Read’s civil attorneys have filed a motion to dismiss the lawsuit, notifying all involved parties. According to Jack Lu, a retired Massachusetts judge and law professor, this indicates an ongoing out-of-court procedure where both sides exchange opposition packages before forwarding them to the court for a hearing or ruling. Despite these developments, there is no indication that a settlement is imminent.

Allegations and Defense

The lawsuit accuses Read of hitting O’Keefe with her vehicle and leaving him in the snow during a blizzard, resulting in his death from head injuries. It also claims that staff at C.F. McCarthy’s allowed Read to leave with alcohol and that the Waterfall Bar and Grille served her while visibly intoxicated. In contrast, Read’s defense argued she was framed during her first trial and denied any collision occurred in her second trial, highlighting investigative flaws.

Implications of Civil Liability

In civil cases like this one, the burden of proof is lower than in criminal trials. Historical cases such as that of O.J. Simpson illustrate how individuals can be acquitted criminally but found liable in civil court. The O’Keefe family alleges that Read deliberately altered her narrative and publicized false information, causing them emotional distress.