Date: March 19, 2025
Location: Boston, Massachusetts
Introduction
Massachusetts State Police Trooper Michael Proctor has been terminated following a series of misconduct allegations related to his role as the lead investigator in the Karen Read murder case. The decision, announced on March 19, 2025, stems from findings of unprofessional behavior, including the dissemination of derogatory messages about Read and the mishandling of sensitive information.
Background
Karen Read, 45, of Mansfield, stands accused of the January 29, 2022, vehicular homicide of her boyfriend, Boston Police Officer John O’Keefe, following a night of socializing. Her initial trial commenced in April 2024 but concluded in a mistrial on July 1, 2024, due to a hung jury. A retrial is scheduled to begin on April 1, 2025.
Proctor’s Misconduct
During the initial trial, Proctor’s conduct came under scrutiny when text messages he sent to friends and colleagues were presented as evidence. In these messages, he referred to Read using offensive language, labeling her a “whack job” and a “c—.” He also expressed a desire for her to commit suicide and made inappropriate comments about her physical appearance and medical condition. Proctor acknowledged these messages in court, describing them as “very regrettable” and “unprofessional.”
Internal Investigation and Termination
Following the mistrial, the Massachusetts State Police initiated an internal affairs investigation into Proctor’s conduct. He was suspended without pay pending the outcome. A three-member trial board found Proctor guilty of several violations, including:
- Sending derogatory and inappropriate text messages about a suspect.
- Sharing sensitive and confidential information about the homicide investigation with individuals outside law enforcement.
- Consuming alcohol while on duty in connection to an unrelated cold case.
Based on these findings, State Police Col. Geoffrey Noble accepted the board’s recommendation to terminate Proctor, stating that the decision reflects an “unwavering commitment to upholding our values, enhancing public trust, and ensuring the highest standards of service and accountability.
Impact on the Karen Read Case
Proctor’s termination raises questions about the integrity of the investigation into O’Keefe’s death and may influence the proceedings in Read’s upcoming retrial. The defense has previously argued that Proctor’s bias and misconduct compromised the investigation, potentially bolstering their case in the retrial.
Family’s Response
Proctor’s family has expressed disappointment with the decision, labeling it as “wrongful termination.” They argue that his messages, though inappropriate, were sent on his personal phone and do not reflect his professional capabilities. The family maintains that Proctor had a previously unblemished 12-year record with the State Police.
Conclusion
The termination of Trooper Michael Proctor underscores the critical importance of professionalism and impartiality in law enforcement investigations. As Karen Read’s retrial approaches, the implications of Proctor’s misconduct on the case’s outcome remain to be seen.
