Brian Higgins Testifies in Karen Read Murder Trial
Higgins’ Relationship with O’Keefe and Read
At the ongoing trial of Karen Read, accused of murdering her boyfriend, John O’Keefe, Brian Higgins, a friend of both the victim and the defendant, took the stand. Higgins testified that he knew O’Keefe and considered him a friend, having met him at the Hillside Pub and attended a Patriots game at his house. He also knew Read and considered her a friend, frequently seeing her with O’Keefe.
Higgins’ Actions on the Night of O’Keefe’s Death
Higgins attended the after-party at 34 Fairview Road on the night of O’Keefe’s death but initially testified that he never saw O’Keefe or Read after leaving the Waterfall Bar. However, he later admitted that he may have seen Read at the after-party. Higgins left early and stopped at the Canton Police Department before heading home, receiving a call from Brian Albert at 6:30 a.m. informing him of O’Keefe’s death.
Texts between Higgins and Read
During the trial, Higgins read dozens of texts between himself and Read on the stand. The texts revealed that Read initiated the conversation and expressed interest in Higgins, admitting to kissing him. She also texted Higgins about her relationship with O’Keefe and her desire to end it, expressing concerns about O’Keefe showing her videos of her interactions with Higgins. Higgins repeatedly asked Read what she wanted from him.
Cross-Examination of Brian Higgins
Read’s defense questioned Higgins about his relationship with Read and whether he was upset by her “ghosting” behavior at the Waterfall Bar. They also asked him how he missed seeing O’Keefe’s body on the lawn of 34 Fairview and accused him of destroying his phone and using federal resources to download selective information.
Brian Higgins Returns to Testify
Brian Higgins is scheduled to resume his testimony on Tuesday morning. He is expected to face further cross-examination from Read’s defense team.
Karen Read’s Defense
Karen Read has pleaded not guilty to the charges against her. Her defense team has presented evidence and testimony aimed at casting doubt on the prosecution’s case. They have questioned Higgins’ credibility, suggested that McCabe may have tampered with evidence, and highlighted instances of tension between Read and O’Keefe.
Jennifer McCabe’s Testimony
Jennifer McCabe testified about finding O’Keefe’s body on the morning of his death. The defense has accused McCabe of searching for information about how long it takes to die in the cold on Google that morning. McCabe has denied any wrongdoing, claiming the search was made by mistake.
Kerry Roberts’ Testimony
Kerry Roberts, a friend of Read and O’Keefe, testified about finding O’Keefe’s body. Roberts recalled Read wondering if she had hit O’Keefe with her car.
Laura and Marietta Sullivan’s Testimony
Two sisters, Laura and Marietta Sullivan, testified about witnessing tension and jealousy between Read and O’Keefe during a trip to Aruba.
Trial Schedule
Court was not in session on Thursday. The jury will only hear testimony on Tuesday next week due to the Memorial Day holiday.
Conclusion
The Karen Read murder trial is ongoing. The jury is expected to begin deliberations after hearing closing arguments from both sides. The outcome of the trial will be closely watched, as it has raised important questions about domestic violence, witness credibility, and the role of technology in criminal investigations.