Witness accounts and expert testimonies in the trials of Karen Read and Samuel Woodward shed light on the alleged crimes but present conflicting narratives. The trials, marked by accusations, theories, and scrutiny of evidence, continue as the legal proceedings unfold.
Testimony in Karen Read Murder Trial
Testimony continued Thursday in the murder trial of Karen Read, who is accused of hitting her boyfriend, John O’Keefe, with her SUV and leaving him for dead in Canton, Massachusetts, in January 2022. Read, 44, allegedly backed into O’Keefe outside a Fairview Road home after a night of bar-hopping. Hours later, she discovered his snow-covered body and repeatedly shouted, “I hit him,” according to first responders.
Defense attorneys claim Read is being framed, alleging O’Keefe was beaten inside the home and possibly attacked by a dog before his body was moved to the lawn.
Dr. Irini Scordi-Bello from the state’s medical examiner’s office testified that O’Keefe’s autopsy revealed injuries consistent with blunt force trauma and signs of hypothermia, suggesting these factors contributed to his death.
Dr. Renee Stonebridge reviewed O’Keefe’s brain injuries, indicating they were caused by significant force. The prosecution and defense presented conflicting interpretations of the health and GPS data from O’Keefe’s phone, relevant to the timeline of events.
The trial is expected to continue into next week.
Samuel Woodward Trial Testimony
Samuel Woodward, accused of killing Blaze Bernstein in 2018, testified in his defense, facing charges that include a hate crime. Woodward, 26, met Bernstein, 19, on a dating app, and they met in person at a park. Bernstein’s body was found in a shallow grave at the park, having been stabbed 20 times.
Prosecutors contend the murder was a hate crime, while Woodward’s defense argues it was not motivated by hate. Woodward’s involvement with the extremist group Atomwaffen Division and his troubled personal history were explored during the trial. Woodward, diagnosed with autism, struggled with his sexuality and interpersonal relationships, according to his attorney.
Authorities linked Woodward to the crime through social media contacts with Bernstein and found incriminating items in his home. The trial, delayed for years over mental competency questions, is ongoing and has reached its 28th day of proceedings.
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