The Bizarre Boston Case of Karen Read

The Bizarre Boston Case of Karen Read

From Infamous by Campside Media / Sony Music Entertainment

March 26, 2026 · 40 min · Season 1 · Episode 187

About this episode

The episode discusses the controversial case of Karen Read, who was acquitted of murdering her boyfriend, and the implications of the case on police power and community loyalty.

Karen Read was acquitted of murdering her boyfriend, Boston police officer John O’Keefe — but the case is far from over. This week, Natalie and Vanessa talk with journalist and podcaster Rebecca Lavoie about the snowstorm death that turned into a referendum on police power, small-town loyalty, and who gets believed when facts are murky. As civil suits ramp up on both sides, they examine the controversial case. For more from Rebecca, check out her podcasts Crime Writers On…True Crime Review and Something’s Off Click ‘Subscribe’ at the top of the Infamous show page on Apple Podcasts or visit GetTheBinge.com to get access wherever you get your podcasts. Find more great podcasts from Sony Music Entertainment at sonymusic.com/podcasts Read Vanessa’s book, Blurred Lines: Sex, Power and Consent on Campus, and check out Natalie on Instagram at @natrobe To connect with Infamous's creative team, join the community at joincampsidemedia.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

People in this episode

Hosts: Natalie, Vanessa

Guest: Rebecca Lavoie

Topics covered

  • murder case
  • police power
  • small-town loyalty
  • civil suits
  • media analysis

Keywords

  • Karen Read
  • John O’Keefe
  • murder acquittal
  • police power
  • civil suits
  • Boston case
  • Rebecca Lavoie

Mentioned in this episode

Organizations: Campside Media, Sony Music Entertainment, Crime Writers On…True Crime Review, Something’s Off

Books & works: Blurred Lines: Sex, Power and Consent on Campus

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