Massachusetts State Police to review Trooper Michael Proctor's duty status regarding Karen Read case investigation
- A duty status hearing will be held by Massachusetts State Police for Trooper Michael Proctor in connection to the Karen Read murder trial.
- The lead investigator in the Karen Read case is being reviewed regarding his handling of the investigation.
- The hearing will determine the future duty status of Trooper Michael Proctor.
In Framingham, Trooper Michael Proctor, the lead investigator in the case against Karen Read, faces a crucial duty status hearing on Monday at Massachusetts State Police headquarters. Proctor, a 10-year veteran of the force, has been unable to perform his trooper duties since the mistrial. The hearing will determine if he can return to work, with potential outcomes including suspension with pay or even termination. State Police Col. John Mawn highlighted limitations in disciplining Proctor due to the collective bargaining agreement with the union, emphasizing that his actions do not reflect the values of the department. Karen Read's attorney, Alan Jackson, criticized Proctor's conduct, accusing him of serious misconduct and expressing support for Read as an innocent woman facing a second trial. The controversy surrounding Proctor's text messages, revealed during the trial, has raised concerns about his integrity and impartiality in the case. Governor Maura Healey condemned the messages as "disgusting," further complicating the situation for Proctor. The jury's inability to reach a unanimous verdict after 27 hours of deliberation added to the uncertainty surrounding the case. Proctor's involvement in the investigation, including allegations of favoritism towards witnesses and questionable relationships with individuals connected to the case, has cast a shadow over the proceedings. The potential consequences for Proctor following the hearing range from suspension to reinstatement, pending State Police's decision. As the hearing approaches, the spotlight remains on the integrity of the investigation and the implications of Proctor's actions on the legal process. The outcome of the duty status hearing will not only impact Proctor's future within the State Police but also influence the ongoing legal proceedings involving Karen Read. Stay tuned for updates on this developing story as the investigation unfolds.