1 month later: More Karen Read trial fallout

Summary

The Karen Read Murder Trial: Canton Confidential – Episode Summary

Episode Title: 1 Month Later: More Karen Read Trial Fallout
Release Date: July 22, 2025
Host/Author: NBC10 Boston
Duration: Approximately 24 minutes

---

Introduction and Overview

In this special edition of Canton Confidential, NBC10 Boston delves into the aftermath of the high-profile Karen Read murder trial, which concluded a month prior to this episode's release. The trial, centered around the allegations that Karen Read was responsible for the death of her boyfriend, Boston Police Officer John O'Keefe, has sparked intense public interest and scrutiny.

Host Introduction:
J.C. Monahan opens the episode by setting the stage for an in-depth analysis:

"Weeks have passed since the conclusion of Karen Reid's second murder trial, a case that not only captivated New England, but the nation as well."
(02:06)

Recap of the Trial

Prosecution Strategy:
The prosecution, led by Special Prosecutor Hank Brennan, adopted a strategy centered on Karen Reed's own statements and behaviors leading up to Officer O'Keefe's death. Brennan's approach differed from his predecessor by directly leveraging Reed's words to build the case against her.

"Karen Reed is innocent and she didn't do this crime."
(06:47) – Sue O'Connell

Key moments included the dismissal of the controversial internet search term "Hoss long to die in cold points," which was initially perceived as incriminating. Expert analysis quickly discredited its significance. Additionally, Dr. Judson Welcher's "blue paint test" aimed to reconstruct the accident but was later challenged by defense experts from the ARCA forensic firm.

Juror Reactions

Post-verdict, jurors expressed skepticism about the prosecution's case, highlighting flaws in evidence and investigative procedures.

"You'll learn that in Michael Proctor's world, he didn't care about finding the truth. In his world, his priority was to protect the Brotherhood..."
(05:19) – Glenn Jones

One juror, the foreman, conveyed their disbelief in the evidence presented:

"I never did that."
(03:12) – J.C. Monahan referencing a juror's statement

Prosecution Critique

Hank Brennan's Performance:
Brennan faced substantial criticism for his handling of the case, both in strategy and ethics. Despite his efforts, the defense's challenges and perceived police mishandling hindered the prosecution's success.

"The jury has spoken. But special prosecutor Hank Brennan is in an egregious breach of prosecutorial ethics..."
(09:10) – Defense Attorney Alan Jackson

Financial Implications:
Brennan's extensive involvement cost Norfolk County taxpayers over half a million dollars.

"We're talking more than a half million dollars."
(10:13) – J.C. Monahan

Defense Perspective

The defense team, comprising attorneys Alan Jackson, David Iannetti, Elizabeth Little, and newcomer Robert Alessi, focused on discrediting the prosecution's evidence and highlighting alleged police misconduct.

"If you can't prove that the impact happened, then everything after that doesn't actually matter, does it?"
(06:22) – Glenn Jones

Their strategy emphasized the lack of concrete evidence linking Reed to the death and questioned the integrity of the police investigation.

Fallout in Law Enforcement

The trial's outcome led to significant repercussions within the Norfolk County DA's office and the broader law enforcement community.

Personnel Changes:

• Sgt. Yuri Buchanak and Trooper David DiCicco were transferred out of the DA's office.
• Michael Proctor was terminated weeks before the second trial amid accusations of bias.
• Detective Lieutenant Brian Tully was also transferred last year.

State Police Response:

"The events of the last three years have challenged our department to thoroughly review our actions..."
(12:04) – State Police Colonel Jeffrey Noble

Colonel Noble announced initiatives to enhance investigative training, oversight, and accountability to restore public trust.

Implications for Future Cases

The trial has cast a shadow over other investigations handled by Michael Proctor, including the Brian Walsh, Sandra Birchmore, and Miles King cases. Public distrust in law enforcement has been exacerbated, making future prosecutions more challenging.

"The Birchmore case and the Walsh case are going to have to be tried well before those reforms are even discussed..."
(15:08) – Glenn Jones

Upcoming District Attorney Election

The verdict has ignited a competitive race for the Norfolk County District Attorney position, challenging the long-standing incumbent, Michael Morrissey.

Candidates Entering the Race:

• Craig McClellan: Former Assistant DA in Suffolk County.

  "I have been a lawyer in Massachusetts for 32 years and I've spent that entire time helping hundreds of families."
  (19:23) – Craig McClellan

• Juna Perkins: Also a former Assistant DA in Suffolk.

• Jim Bearcat: Public defense attorney with a decade of experience.

  "My background is being on the other end of prosecution."
  (19:35) – Jim Bearcat

Incumbent Michael Morrissey:
Morrissey, who has served as DA for over a decade with unopposed elections, remains silent amidst the controversy. His fundraising prowess poses a significant advantage over challengers.

"He's got more than $425,000 cash on hand."
(20:13) – Reporter 1

Civil Suit Against Karen Reed

Karen Reed faces a wrongful death lawsuit filed by Officer O'Keefe's family, alleging her actions directly contributed to his death. The family is also suing two Canton bars the couple visited prior to the incident. Reed has recently expanded her legal defense team and moved to dismiss the case, with her next hearing scheduled for September 22nd.

"The total is now six. Her next hearing is set for September 22nd."
(22:26) – J.C. Monahan

Conclusion

As the community grapples with the trial's aftermath, the episode underscores the pressing need for reforms within law enforcement and the prosecutorial system. With upcoming elections and ongoing civil litigation, the ripple effects of the Karen Read murder trial continue to influence Norfolk County's legal landscape.

---

Notable Quotes:

• Sue O'Connell:

  "Karen Reed is innocent and she didn't do this crime."
  (06:47)

• Glenn Jones:

  "If I was district attorney would have said more and would have said things different."
  (01:49)

• Hank Brennan (Prosecutor):

  "I am disappointed in the verdict and the fact that we could not achieve justice for John o'Keefe and his family."
  (10:39)

• State Police Colonel Jeffrey Noble:

  "Our focus remains on delivering excellent police services that reflect the value of professionalism and maintain public trust."
  (13:00)

---

Watch the full episode to gain comprehensive insights and follow the ongoing developments in this landmark case.

Transcript

[Narrator]

Want the same expert advice from the pros at a discount tire store while shopping for tires online. Meet Treadwell, your personal tire guide. Treadwell is an online tire buying guide that gives you personalized recommendations based on your location, driving habits and tire performance. Just enter your vehicle info, zip code and driving routines and then Treadwell will match you with the perfect tire for your vehicle. Shop for tires with [e-mail] let's get you taken care of. You know what makes every outfit look better? The right bra from ThirdLove. Their bras make it easy to get what you want. Plus they make over 60 sizes, including half cups you won't find anywhere else. ThirdLove solves bra problems, or what they call problems. Real women test every style they make. Comfort and support are guaranteed. So stop settling for bad brawls. Get your brobl solved today. Save $15 on your first order with code podcast15@thirdlove. McCormick knows unbeatable flavor starts with the right spices. It's why we created Flavour Sealed. So anytime you peel back the seal of McCormick herbs and spices, you can be confident they will pack the same amount of flavor as the day they were packed. The kind of flavor that brings out the best of your favorite recipes and keeps everyone coming back for seconds or maybe even thirds. McCormick flavor sealed for unbeatable flavor.

[Reporter 1]

NBC10.

[Narrator]

Boston news worthy of you.

[J.C. Monahan]

Not guilty.

[Glenn Jones]

Guilty.

[Sue O'Connell]

The Karen Reed Murder Trial one month.

[J.C. Monahan]

Later Tonight, we look back at how.

[Sue O'Connell]

We got here, what's next and the.

[Michael Cohen]

Fallout from this high profile case.

[Glenn Jones]

If I was district attorney would have.

[Narrator]

Would have said more and would have said things different.

[J.C. Monahan]

We're covering it all with our panel of experts.

[Sue O'Connell]

A special edition of Canton Confidential. The Karen Reed murder trial starts right now.

[J.C. Monahan]

Weeks have passed since the conclusion of Karen Reid's second murder trial, a case that not only captivated New England, but the nation as well. Good evening everyone. I'm J.C. monahan.

[Michael Cohen]

And I'm Glenn Jones. First up, we're looking back at the trial. For that we turn to our Melody Mendez.

[Narrator]

First, the prosecution, the man at the helm, special prosecutor Hank Brennan. A lifelong attorney with an impressive resume, Brennan was hired by the Norfolk County DA's office September of 2024.

[Michael Cohen]

Good morning, your honor. Hank Brennan for the Commonwealth.

[J.C. Monahan]

Morning, Mr. Brennan.

[Narrator]

And from day one of Karen Reed's trial, it was clear Brennan was taking a different approach than his predecessor. He built the Commonwealth's case on Reid's own words.

[Glenn Jones]

You'll hear her words clipped him. Could have tagged him in the knee and incapacitated him.

[Narrator]

While Brennan spent less time defending his witnesses from defense accusations. And there were fewer personalities than the first trial. There were a number of aha moments.

[Glenn Jones]

You KN search for Hoss long to die in cold points a very uncomfortable finger right toward you. Correct.

[J.C. Monahan]

I never did that.

[Narrator]

Search At 2:27 in trial one, the Internet search Hoss long to die in the cold garnered a lot of attention during this trial. Brennan quickly discounted the search with expert analysis.

[Michael Cohen]

As long as Safari doesn't close, then.

[Glenn Jones]

The timestamp will remain the same.

[Narrator]

Then when the State's expert witness, Dr. Judson Welcher took the stand, the so called blue paint test seemed to reson the accident reconstructionist using blue paint on a similar SUV and his own body to try to show John o' Keefe's injuries were consistent with being hit by Reed's Lexus. But the test was later called into question by a defense expert from accident reconstruction firm arca.

[Glenn Jones]

You can't say with any scientific certainty that that area of pain corresponds to where the abrasions are.

[Narrator]

38 witnesses were called and 31 days across testimony spanning more than seven weeks, notably not on the witness list. Former Mass state trooper Michael Proctor. For the defense, Trial two saw the return of attorneys Alan Jackson, David Iannetti and Elizabeth Little. Plus a new face behind the bar, Robert Alessi. And a surprise, a juror from the first trial, attorney Victoria George. The expanded team took lessons from trial one to evolve their strategy for trial two.

[Glenn Jones]

A cancer that cannot be cut out. A cancer that cannot be cured. And that cancer has a name. His name is Michael Proctor.

[Narrator]

The defense took the opportunity to shine a light on what they called faulty police work. The defense questioned the use of red solo cups and grocery bags to collect blood samples. How Reed's SUV appeared to have additional damage after being taken for police inspection.

[Glenn Jones]

That middle section was intact when I was there.

[Narrator]

The decision for officers to remain outside the home where John o' Keefe's body was found in the yard.

[Michael Cohen]

I would have to twist circumstances to have the right to search Brian Albert's house. We had no reason and there's been no reason since. How about this? How about this?

[Glenn Jones]

There's a dead guy on the lawn that looked like he potentially could have been in a physical altercation. How about that?

[Narrator]

And the decision to not pursue any additional suspects.

[Glenn Jones]

You'll learn that in Michael Proctor's world, he didn't care about finding the truth. In his world, his priority was to protect the Brotherhood, to protect that blue wall, to protect his friends who were at the Alberts house that night.

[Narrator]

At almost every turn, the defense conjuring former trooper Michael Proctor's name.

[Glenn Jones]

Michael Proctor went far beyond just insulting Karen Reid. He dehumanized this woman. He was fired for this blatant bias.

[Narrator]

But perhaps the most highly contested testimony in the case came from the defense's witnesses. From ARCA, a forensic and engineering firm, Dr. Daniel Wolf and Dr. Andrew Rentschler testified John O' Keefe was not hit by a vehicle, saying neither the injuries to his body nor the damage to the SUV would match that possibility.

[Glenn Jones]

In any of the testing that you did, did you ever see tail light pieces cut, puncture or fray the sleeve of that hoodie?

[Melody Mendez]

No.

[Glenn Jones]

If you can't prove that the impact happened, then everything after that doesn't actually matter, does it?

[Narrator]

Summing up the defense's approach from their opening statements and beyond, There was no collision. None of us know what happened to him. What we know is that wasn't Karen Reed responsible for his death. She did not kill him.

[Sue O'Connell]

Karen Reed is innocent and she didn't do this crime.

[Michael Cohen]

That was reaction from two jurors just days after the trial ended. One of them was the jury foreman. He spoke with the Today show. And look at us all around the table. Once again, our chief legal analyst, Michael Cohen and our courtroom insider, Sue o'. Connell. All right, Michael, you just heard from the jurors there. They did not believe that Karen Reid was responsible for John o' Keefe's death. And when you look back on this case, do you have any reason to second guess the way Hank Brennan presented the evidence? Or was this more about bad policing that there was just no way he could overcome?

[Glenn Jones]

I think now when we really start to revisit it, I don't think he could have tried a different case. If you remember, the first case was very different. Still was a hung jury. He tried a very different case. The fact is it was always going to be virtually impossible to overcome the horrible, unprofessional police work at the outset, the collection, the preservation of evidence, and I think in many ways to overcome what some folks on that jury likely thought at the outset is that let's see if the government can prove it. But they have got a heavy burden to overcome with respect to the problems that were self inflicted here.

[J.C. Monahan]

Well, it's been a month and we've heard not just from some of the jurors we heard, we also spoke with two members of her defense team and they shared a number of opinions on the case, including the view that their Client was overcharged.

[Glenn Jones]

She was overcharged twice. They then took the case to the grand jury. And it wasn't enough to, in my view, overcharged her with manslaughter, but they then overcharged her with second degree murder, which I just thought was crazy. I think the case was. Was treated differently because of who the victim was.

[Michael Cohen]

That was part of our conversation earlier this month with defense attorneys David Yannetti, who represented Reid in both trials, and Robert Alessi, who joined in the second trial. And Sue, I know you've spoken to several people who think she was overcharged, and they think even more specifically than that it is because the victim was a police officer.

[Reporter 1]

Yeah, absolutely. I mean, it's, it's. Every single person I spoke to said, when you have a dead police officer who may have been assaulted or murdered, you definitely need to get in there and make sure you're charging because you know, they are. Those crimes are heavier than crimes against just regular civilians for many reasons. Of course, that also begs the question that if she was overcharged because he was a police officer, why didn't they do a better job investigating because he was a police officer? And that's what I talked to a couple of jurors about the struggle they had where I think one of them said to me, I understand the charge. I just don't understand the lack of follow up to that charge.

[J.C. Monahan]

All right, we, as of today, we know if we go through all the players here. Yannetti is practicing in Boston. Alessi is back in New York, and then there's Alan Jackson. He has signed a movie and a book deal about the case, but otherwise he hasn't said much to the media. However, he did put out a statement not long after the verdict was reached. It took aim at prosecutor Hank Brennan and said in part, quote, the jury has spoken. But special prosecutor Hank Brennan is in an egregious breach of prosecutorial ethics, has tried to publicly shame and discredit that very jury. The Commonwealth fell wildly short of that responsibility.

[Michael Cohen]

And here's part of what he was responding to. This is a snippet of the statement Brennan released. I am disappointed in the verdict and the fact that we could not achieve justice for John o' Keefe and his family. Neither the closed federal investigation nor my independent review led me to identify any other possible suspect or person responsible for the death of John o'. Keefe. In the wake of this trial, special prosecutor Hank Brennan racked up quite the bill.

[J.C. Monahan]

We're talking more than a half million dollars. That's how much taxpayers in Norfolk county paid for his work. Here's a breakdown of Brennan's pay, which did include charges for work done pretrial. If you do the math, the final tally is around $566,000.

[Michael Cohen]

So, Michael, you've defended in the past the need to spend what is necessary in the pursuit of justice. So we get that. But it's also a political decision, because this is a political office. Did what happened in the retrial mean that future DAs will be hesitant to bring on a special prosecutor, even when you think it's warranted?

[Glenn Jones]

I think that there's little doubt of that, Glenn, because if you think about it, why wouldn't you, if you were a new da, in creating a better office, why wouldn't you hire more highly seasoned trial lawyers and pay them at 566,000? That's going to get you two public servants at the minimum, who are highly skilled, trained trial lawyers who would likely have been able to try this case, and you would have them for the whole year. So I do think the economics will come into play, but I also think we've got to be very, very careful in allowing defendants, who have a lot of assets and a lot of power and a lot of play, be able to buy their way out of the system. And that's, in essence, why they needed to bring in new staff here to really try to right the ship, because the ship was a mess when Hank Brennan was hired.

[J.C. Monahan]

And on that note, let's talk about the fallout that has happened since this trial, especially in law enforcement. Since the second trial ended, Sgt. Yuri Buchanak and Trooper David DiCicco have been transferred out of the DA's office. Michael Proctor was fired weeks before the second trial, in part because of his behavior during the Reid investigation. Although they said it was about lack of ability in his. In his position, he's trying to get his job back. Detective Lieutenant Brian Tully was transferred out last year. Following the verdict, State Police Colonel Jeffrey Noble released a statement saying, quote, the events of the last three years have challenged our department to thoroughly review our actions and take concrete steps to deliver advanced investigative training, ensure appropriate oversight, and enhance accountability. Our focus remains on delivering excellent police services that reflect the value of professionalism and maintain public trust.

[Michael Cohen]

So Colonel Noble, who you heard from there, obviously has a lot of work to do. Sue. And I suppose we should point out he was hired from outside the agency, which is rare, maybe even an advantage in this situation. Can he restore public confidence? And if you think he can, how long will it take?

[Reporter 1]

Well, I think I think he can, because again, the overwhelming number of state troopers are doing their job every single day. They get up on the stand, they testify, they don't make news. There are convictions, they do what they're supposed to do. And then you have a handful here that have really disgraced the state troopers.

[Michael Cohen]

How did they all end up in this case?

[Reporter 1]

Well, that would be maybe because they were all in District Attorney Morrissey's office. That might be an issue. I don't know about that. But yes, he can right the ship. But we do have problems with the way the state police are organized in that they don't have an outside agency or who polices them, as we have done in our Commonwealth Confidential show, seeing that other states do that. So that is a roadblock he has. But yes, he definitely can restore the trust that he can.

[J.C. Monahan]

And then let's talk about how many cases Michael Proctor has had his hands in, number of murder cases before he was filed. And now those investigations are being looked at more closely. We're talking about the Brian Walsh case, the Sandra Birchmore case, the Miles King case. And today, the lead prosecutor in the first Karen retrial, Adam Lally, testified about how Proctor handled evidence that was supposed to be shared with the Myles King defense team. It was very weird to see Lally on the stand in the same courtroom where all of this went down.

[Michael Cohen]

Yeah, it was a wild moment. So, Sue, a lot of people are following the cases that JC just mentioned because they followed the Karen Reed trials. What's the net result of that, do you think?

[Reporter 1]

The net result of folks following the Astra Spotlight? Well, I mean, I hope that reform happens. I hope that some of the things that we see that if they are repeating in these other cases that are mismanagement or bad investigation, whatever the cause is, if we see evidence of that, I hope that people take action and there's reform for it.

[J.C. Monahan]

Well, what could the implications be, though, in the. Like the Walsh and the. And the Birchmore case?

[Glenn Jones]

Well, if the level of distrust of law enforcement is so extensive, as I'm afraid at times now it is, I think it goes well beyond state police. If you think about the attacks on the FBI and all of the, the rest of the attacks on law enforcement and some of the misdeeds, it's going to take a long while to build that trust back up, a long time and a lot of reforms. And the problem is the Birchmore case and the Walsh case are going to have to be tried well before those reforms are even discussed in serious detail. It's going to be make, make make success for the Commonwealth in those two cases more difficult because the jury comes in with some level of distrust now with the prosecution.

[Michael Cohen]

Michael sue, thank you very much. Like riding a bike. The two we're going to have a lot more coming up. Our conversation continues right after this short break.

[J.C. Monahan]

Up next, we're looking ahead at the civil suit filed against Karen Reed, plus.

[Michael Cohen]

The upcoming election for Norfolk County District Attorney. How funds raised for incumbent Michael Morrissey could be meant for something else. We'll be right back.

[Sue O'Connell]

Pandora makes it easy for you to.

[Glenn Jones]

Find your favorite music, discover new artists.

[Sue O'Connell]

And genres by selecting any song or.

[Glenn Jones]

Album, and we'll make you a personalized station for free download on the Apple App Store or Google Play and enjoy the soundtrack to your life.

[Sue O'Connell]

You just realized your business needed to hire someone yesterday. How can you find amazing candidates fast? Easy. Just use Indeed. When it comes to hiring, Indeed is all you need. Stop struggling to get your job post seen on other job sites. Indeed Sponsored Jobs help you stand out and hire fast. With Sponsored Jobs, your post jumps to the top of the page for your relevant candidates so you can reach the people you want faster. According to Indeed data, Sponsored Jobs posted directly on indeed have 45% more applications than non sponsored jobs. There's no need to wait any longer. Speed up your hiring right now with Indeed and listeners of this show will get a $75 sponsored job credit. To get your jobs more visibility@ Indeed.com podcast just go to Indeed.com podcast right now and support our show by saying you heard about Indeed on this podcast. Indeed.com podcast terms and conditions apply. Hiring Indeed is all you need.

[Glenn Jones]

This will be the first statement of its kind in my dozen years as Norfolk District Attorney. The harassment of witnesses and the murder prosecution of Karen Reed is absolutely baseless.

[J.C. Monahan]

That was Norfolk County District Attorney Michael Morrissey back in 2023. He recorded that video before the first Karen Reid trial and then after Morrissey got out very quickly after that first trial to say he would try the case again. The second trial happens and basically haven't.

[Michael Cohen]

Heard hardly a peep. Morrissey has been the DA for more than a decade, winning by wide margins. But as our Matt Pritchard reports, candidates are lining up to challenge him.

[Melody Mendez]

Michael Morrissey is tough to track down these days, staying away from cameras in the wake of the Karen Reid verdict, even as contenders begin to stack up for the 2026 election.

[J.C. Monahan]

Not guilty.

[Melody Mendez]

A roar outside the Dedham courthouse echoing through the 2026 Karen Reed found not guilty of every major charge in the death of her boyfriend, Boston police Officer John o', Keefe, capping off years of state prosecution efforts and hundreds of thousands of taxpayer dollars.

[Glenn Jones]

Proof beyond reasonable doubt.

[Michael Cohen]

Such a high standard.

[Glenn Jones]

Let's acknowledge failure here and figure out how we're going to move forward.

[J.C. Monahan]

The verdict shows, you know, was a highlight of all the mistakes that were made in that case, the high profile.

[Melody Mendez]

Case leading to fierce criticism of District Attorney Michael Morrissey, with challengers quickly filing their paperwork, including Democrats Craig McClellan, Juna Perkins and Jim Bearcat. Let's start with McClellan, a former assistant DA in Suffolk County.

[Glenn Jones]

I am going to bring us back to the basics here, and that is remember that holding a public office is a service to the public.

[Melody Mendez]

Juna Perkins also served as an assistant DA in Suffolk.

[J.C. Monahan]

I've been a lawyer in Massachusetts for 32 years and I've spent that entire time helping hundreds of families.

[Melody Mendez]

Jim Bearcat comes with a somewhat different resume, highlighting 10 years as a public defense attorney.

[Glenn Jones]

My background is being on the other end of prosecution.

[Melody Mendez]

But they won't be the last to enter this race. More Dems could emerge and Republicans as well.

[Michael Cohen]

We may actually be in a primary situation or we might end up with one of these candidates. But either way we're, you know, we're going to be in good shape.

[Melody Mendez]

The big question will Michael Morrissey run for re election? He's been in the job since 2010 and has run unopposed in each of the past three elections, including primaries. Efforts to ask him about his plans went unanswered both via phone and email. Plus, he appeared to drive past us at his office and had straight into the building before answering questions.

[J.C. Monahan]

It is a little underwhelming that we haven't heard more from him. I understand the position that he's in. He's in a really tough spot.

[Melody Mendez]

Whatever he chooses to do, one thing is clear, 2026 will bring a competitive contest to Norfolk County.

[J.C. Monahan]

His silence in the wake of these decisions is cowardly.

[Glenn Jones]

Whoever's incoming has an uphill battle. We have a fairly disconnected, inaccessible, invisible elected leader in that office.

[Melody Mendez]

We gave District Attorney Morrissey multiple opportunities to take part in this story on Thursday and Friday of last week and spend much of the day today outside of his office. We did not hear from him either virtually or in person in Canton. Matt Pritchard, NBC10 Boston District Attorney Michael.

[Michael Cohen]

Morrissey has a major fundraising lead over the other candidates looking to take a seat. And major is an understatement. He's got more than $425,000 cash on hand. His closest competitor, Juna Perkins, is far behind at $39,000. Craig McLennan has raised 18 and a half thousand, while Jim Barakat's campaign has just $84 on hand in campaign funds.

[J.C. Monahan]

Let's bring back Michael and Sue. Sue to you. If Morrissey ran, could he win?

[Reporter 1]

And.

[J.C. Monahan]

And if he doesn't win, where does that almost half million dollars go?

[Reporter 1]

Yeah. No, I don't think he can win, and I think he knows that. That's why he's not saying anything. And I think there's a lot of money nationwide that's going to pour into these other candidates and candidates yet to be announced, even on the Republicans.

[J.C. Monahan]

At $84, you're not really competing, right?

[Reporter 1]

Not yet. But the money can go to a number of places. He can keep it in his campaign. It's a campaign. He could return it to the people who sent it to him. That never, ever, ever, ever seems unlikely. Fair and clear. He can use it to endorse and give to another candidate. He can use it maybe as power to maybe say he's going to do that, but not remember, if he is in a situation where he needs to defend himself in a civil suit or a criminal suit, he can't use that money for that purposes. But having that money certainly is a comfort in many ways. Again, it's not his money, it's the campaign's money, but it's his power.

[Michael Cohen]

Up next for Karen Reed is civil court. She's facing a wrongful death lawsuit from John o' Keeffe's family. The family alleges her actions led to o' Keeffe's death. The family is suing Reed as well as the two Canton bars the couple visited in the hours before his death. Reed recently moved to dismiss the case. She also added three new attorneys to her civil defense team. The total is now six. Her next hearing is set for September 22nd. So, Michael, of course, the standard of proof is lower in a civil case. So given that, does the o' Keeffe family have a shot here?

[Glenn Jones]

Very much so. And it's not as complicated as even having to say that the vehicle hit him, which they were unable to prove in the first case. The bars, did they overserve the defendant Reid, as well as John o', Keefe, could that have contributed to his death? And that's on the tavern's liability. And then you could even make the argument. It would be a harder argument to make. But even if she didn't hit him, did they have a special relationship? Usually that's mother and child or parent to child. But did they have a special relationship where she owed him a duty to take care of him and not leave him in a blizzard in a lightweight coat where he had consumed so much alcohol that even if he slipped and fell, there might be some liability for her not having taken better care of him? I think that's a difficult burden. They're still likely going to have to do what they were unable to do in the criminal case is connect the vehicle striking him in some way to his ultimate death.

[J.C. Monahan]

Michael Coyne, Sue o', Connell, as always, thank you for being back at the table to discuss the case. One month later. You have been watching a special edition of Canton Confidential, the Karen Reed murder trial. Have a great night.

[Glenn Jones]

Watch Priscilla Casper and Colton Bradford, weeknights at 6 on NBC 10 Boston.

[Sue O'Connell]

Tax free weekend can get a little crazy so avoid the crowds and save even more right now with 15% off everything and get up to 60 months, no.

[Glenn Jones]

Interest experience the difference at Jordan.

[Narrator]

You bought your Toyota because Toyota is the longest lasting brand. You put your trust in Toyota's reputation for quality. Now put your trust in Toyota trained certified technicians who install genuine Toyota parts to help keep your Toyota a Toyota. Get your Toyota ready for that adventure filled summer road trip. See your New England Toyota dealer for affordable service offers.

[Sue O'Connell]

Hey everybody, Ted Danson here to tell you about my podcast with my longtime friend and sometimes co host Woody Harrelson. It's called where everybody knows your name and we're back for another season. I'm so excited to be joined this season by friends like John Mulaney, David Spade, Sarah Silverman, Ed Helms and many more. You don't want to miss it. Listen to where everybody knows your name with me, Ted Danson and Woody Harrelson. Sometimes wherever you get your podcasts.