Why are protesters holding signs in New Bedford saying “FREE Karen Read”?

If you live in the New Bedford area you might have recently seen protesters with signs reading “Free Karen Read” on the corner of Route 6 and Highway 140. In recent weeks there have been a few organized protests setup by this group on that busy intersection.

They are protesting to free Karen Read, 42, of Mansfield, who was indicted on charges of second-degree murder, motor vehicle manslaughter and leaving the scene of a collision causing death. She is accused of hitting Boston Police Officer, John O’Keefe with her vehicle outside of a friend’s house in Canton after a night of drinking on Jan. 29, 2022.

Independent Journalist, Aiden Kearney, more famously known as “Turtleboy” has brought a ton of attention on this case claiming that Karen Read is innocent and being set up. His relentless work on this case has spread word across Massachusetts and the entire United States.

Since this case is rapidly gaining popularity, we decided to show up to the recent protest in New Bedford and interview the protesters, watch below!