Judge clears supporter of Karen Read who scattered rubber ducks and fake cash

In Massachusetts, a judge dismissed criminal charges against Richard Schiffer Jr., who was a supporter of Karen Read, on the grounds of First Amendment protections. The charges had been brought in the context of Schiffer's public display of yellow rubber ducks and fake $100 bills, which he admitted to placing around town in support of Read, who faced serious criminal allegations including second-degree murder for allegedly causing the death of her boyfriend, John O'Keefe. Schiffer's defense emphasized that his actions constituted protected political speech rather than illegal intimidation or harassment. The judge, Brian Walsh, reiterated this point in his ruling, suggesting that Schiffer’s behavior, although perhaps immature, was within his rights to express agreement with a defense narrative suggesting that Read had been framed in a controversial case that has polarized the community. Schiffer’s conduct stemmed from a closing argument by Read’s defense attorney, Alan Jackson, who mentioned that “if it walks like a duck and talks like a duck, it’s a duck,” referencing the defense strategy that framed Read as a scapegoat rather than a culpable party. According to the defense, the evidence suggested that O’Keefe died in the home of another officer, who was also part of the investigation, which they claim led law enforcement to unfairly focus on Read as a suspect, seemingly to avoid implicating fellow officers. This claim of a convenient outsider has resonated with many of Read’s supporters, including Schiffer, who claims a widespread cover-up by local law enforcement. The proceedings also marked a notable tension within the community, especially as demonstrations for Read's support often led to confrontations with those who believe she is guilty. Schiffer’s actions drew attention when some rubber ducks were found positioned near a pizza shop owned by the brother of the officer involved in the case, escalating local sentiment surrounding the investigation. Notably, the case has drawn public scrutiny and has been the subject of various articles highlighting the controversial circumstances and the strong opinions held by residents on both sides of the debate. Read has been accused of wrongdoing not only by prosecutors but also in public opinion, yet her defense maintains that systemic issues within the police force have influenced the investigation. Following the dismissal of charges against Schiffer, Read’s retrial was postponed to April, as a prior mistrial resulted from jurors being unable to reach an agreement regarding her guilt. The defendants continue to assert that alternative suspects should be considered, further complicating the already convoluted narrative surrounding O'Keefe's tragic death. As legal battles continue, the community remains deeply divided, with supporters ardently advocating for Read’s exoneration while others advocate for her conviction, all against a backdrop of ongoing public demonstrations and media coverage that keeps the case in the spotlight.