Judge Denies Mistrial in Karen Read Trial: DNA Evidence Takes Center Stage

The Karen Read trial took another turn today as Judge Beverly Cannone denied a mistrial motion from the defense. The motion followed questioning by special prosecutor Hank Brennan of Dr. Marie Russell, an expert in dog bites. Dr. Russell’s testimony centered on the lack of canine DNA on John O’Keefe’s sleeve, a key piece of evidence in the defense's case. Brennan stated, "The defense is on notice that we were not going to try to disprove all of their varying theories, but if they were going to propose theories that we thought were unsubstantiated, we would do so in rebuttal." The judge's decision indicates the trial will proceed, focusing on the central question of whether the dog bite was the cause of Mr. O’Keefe’s injuries. This case has captivated the public and this ruling is a major development, keeping the focus on the evidence presented in court.