• Man Faces Charges in “Duckgate” Scandal Linked to Karen Read Case
    Oct 24 2024
    Man Faces Charges in “Duckgate” Scandal Linked to Karen Read Case A Massachusetts man is facing criminal charges after allegedly distributing rubber ducks and fake $100 bills in support of Karen Read, a woman accused of killing her boyfriend, Boston Police Officer John O’Keefe. Richard Schiffer Jr., 65, has been charged with witness intimidation, criminal harassment, and littering, according to Stoughton District Court. The incidents, some locals are calling "Duckgate," have sparked controversy in the Boston suburb of Canton, where the case has divided the community. Schiffer is accused of leaving rubber ducks and counterfeit bills near homes and businesses connected to witnesses in Read's case, which has attracted a fervent group of supporters. Read, 44, of Mansfield, is accused of striking O'Keefe with her SUV outside a Canton home on January 29, 2022, and leaving him to die in a snowstorm after a night of drinking. O’Keefe’s body was found the next morning outside the home of a fellow Boston police officer. Read has pleaded not guilty, and her defense team argues that she was framed as part of a conspiracy to protect individuals who were present at the home that night. They claim O’Keefe was fatally beaten, and his body was left outside to divert suspicion onto Read. Her first trial ended in a mistrial in July 2023 after the jury was deadlocked. Judge Beverly Cannone, who oversaw that trial, will return to the bench for Read's second trial, scheduled for early next year. Cannone rejected the defense's request to drop certain charges, and that decision is now being appealed to the Massachusetts Supreme Judicial Court. In addition to overseeing the retrial, Cannone will also rule on recent requests by Special Assistant District Attorney Hank Brennan, who was appointed to lead the case last month. Brennan has asked for court authorization to reassemble and retest electronics from Read's SUV, seeking more evidence before the retrial. He has also requested cellphone records for William Read, Karen Read’s father, and records related to a 2023 local media interview the Read family gave about the case. Schiffer, who admits to distributing rubber ducks and fake $100 bills, claims his actions are protected under the First Amendment. "Through the First Amendment and my right to free speech, I expressed my opinion and belief that Karen Read is innocent," Schiffer wrote in an online fundraiser seeking help with his legal fees. Schiffer’s attorney has not yet been listed in court records, and CNN has reached out to him for comment. The rubber ducks reportedly reference a comment made by Read's defense attorney, Alan Jackson, during a pre-trial hearing, when he said, "If it walks like a duck and talks like a duck, it’s a duck." Police claim Schiffer used these ducks to harass witnesses by implying they could not "duck the truth" about O'Keefe's death. Surveillance footage, traffic cameras, and witness testimony were used to link Schiffer to the incidents. The first incident occurred in March 2023, when fake $100 bills were found near D&E Pizza & Subs in Canton, a restaurant owned by a relative of the homeowner where O’Keefe’s body was discovered. Over the next several months, more fake bills and rubber ducks appeared near O'Keefe’s home, two bars he visited before his death, and outside homes of other witnesses. Some of the ducks carried stickers implicating a family member of the property owner where O'Keefe was found, and the fake bills bore the message “Justice for BPO John O’Keefe.” In May, investigators executed a search warrant on Schiffer’s Toyota Tundra and found rubber ducks and stickers inside the vehicle. Rubber ducks were also discovered outside the home of Massachusetts State Police Trooper Michael Proctor, the lead investigator in the case. Proctor has been accused of mishandling the investigation, and after Read’s first trial, he was suspended from the force without pay following revelations of inappropriate comments he made about Read in a private group chat with colleagues. Schiffer, however, maintains that his actions were peaceful and lawful expressions of his belief that Read is innocent. "Charging innocent citizens with manufactured crimes is weaponizing our justice system to silence law-abiding citizens," Schiffer wrote in a second online fundraiser. As Read’s retrial approaches, the case continues to gain national attention, and the community remains divided. Schiffer's criminal charges could carry serious consequences, with witness intimidation alone carrying a potential 10-year prison sentence. Despite this, Schiffer shows no signs of backing down, asserting that he will continue to advocate for Read’s innocence as she prepares to stand trial again in January. Want to listen to ALL of our podcasts AD-FREE? Subscribe through APPLE PODCASTS, and try it for three days free: https://tinyurl.com/ycw626tj Follow Our Other Cases: https://...
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    13 mins
  • Karen Read's Defense Pushes for Charge Dismissal in Murder Case as ACLU Files Amicus Brief
    Oct 17 2024
    Attorneys from the American Civil Liberties Union (ACLU) of Massachusetts have submitted an amicus brief to the Supreme Judicial Court (SJC) of Massachusetts in support of Karen Read’s ongoing legal battle. Read, a former adjunct professor from Mansfield, is appealing to have two charges dismissed in her murder case. The ACLU’s brief was accepted by the court but did not immediately reveal their stance or include a summary of their position. Karen Read faces accusations related to the death of Boston police officer John O’Keefe, who prosecutors claim was struck by Read's SUV and left to die in the snow following a night out in Canton. Read, however, maintains her innocence, contending that O’Keefe was assaulted inside the house of another Boston officer, Brian Albert, before being left outside. Her first trial ended in a mistrial after the jury, comprising six men and six women, reached a deadlock. Some jurors have since come forward, stating they had reached a consensus to acquit her of the charges of second-degree murder and leaving the scene. Following the mistrial, Read's defense sought to have these two charges dismissed. Judge Beverly Cannone denied this motion, leading to the appeal now before the SJC. Read’s legal team contends that the jury’s alleged agreement should constitute an acquittal on these counts and argues that protections against double jeopardy should prevent a retrial on the charges. “The court relied solely upon the lack of an ‘open and public verdict affirmed in open court,’” the defense wrote, referencing Judge Cannone’s decision. “This reasoning is rooted in a formalism that has been consistently rejected by the United States Supreme Court and this Court in a string of precedents spanning more than one hundred years.” The defense also believes that the Supreme Judicial Court should allow a post-trial inquiry into the jury’s statements, which they argue constitutes an “overt factor” that should prompt further investigation. Additionally, they are questioning Judge Cannone’s decision to declare a mistrial when she did, given the alleged consensus from the jurors. District Attorney Michael Morrissey, responding to the appeal, has appointed Attorney Hank Brennan as special prosecutor for Read’s case. Brennan, known for his work in other high-profile cases, will lead the prosecution when Read’s second trial, currently scheduled for January 27, begins. The Norfolk District Attorney’s Office stated that their response to Read’s appeal will be submitted by the court's deadline, with Read's attorneys expected to reply shortly after. Should the Supreme Judicial Court side with Read’s defense and dismiss the charges, it would mark a significant development in a case that has drawn extensive public and media attention. If the charges are upheld, Read faces up to life in prison for second-degree murder, as well as significant penalties on charges of manslaughter while operating under the influence and leaving the scene of a personal injury and death. Throughout the trial, prosecutors faced setbacks, including complications with surveillance footage and misconduct among investigators, which has contributed to the intense scrutiny of the case. The defense has also raised these issues in their appeal, seeking to underscore what they argue are critical flaws in the prosecution's case. With oral arguments scheduled to take place before the SJC, Read and her legal team are preparing for a pivotal hearing that could determine the course of the upcoming trial. For now, the court's decision will hinge on whether the defense’s arguments regarding jury consensus, double jeopardy, and procedural conduct are persuasive enough to merit the dismissal of charges or, at the very least, a re-evaluation of the trial’s conduct. Want to listen to ALL of our podcasts AD-FREE? Subscribe through APPLE PODCASTS, and try it for three days free: https://tinyurl.com/ycw626tj Follow Our Other Cases: https://www.truecrimetodaypod.com The latest on The Downfall of Diddy, The Trial of Karen Read, The Murder Of Maddie Soto, Catching the Long Island Serial Killer, Awaiting Admission: BTK’s Unconfessed Crimes, Delphi Murders: Inside the Crime, Chad & Lori Daybell, The Murder of Ana Walshe, Alex Murdaugh, Bryan Kohberger, Lucy Letby, Kouri Richins, Malevolent Mormon Mommys, Justice for Harmony Montgomery, The Murder of Stephen Smith, The Murder of Madeline Kingsbury, The Murder Of Sandra Birchmore, and much more! Listen at https://www.truecrimetodaypod.com
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    12 mins
  • What Evidence Of Crimes Were The Stoughton & Canton Police Wiping From Their Phones Before Investigation?
    Oct 10 2024
    What happens when those sworn to protect the public are accused of unspeakable acts? The saga of Sandra Birchmore, involving allegations against law enforcement, exposes a chilling scenario. Allegedly groomed from age 12 by officer Matthew Farwell, her tragic story doesn't end with one person. His twin brother's involvement and even a school resource officer add to the disturbing revelations. The question isn't just who knew about this, but how many others turned a blind eye? How far did the fear in this small town go, and how deeply did it root itself? With leaked secrets, fear-driven silence, and small-town dynamics at play, is this just the tip of the iceberg?

    #TrueCrime #SandraBirchmore #LawEnforcementAbuse #Corruption #JusticeForSandra #SmallTownSecrets #HiddenKillers
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    The latest on The Downfall of Diddy, The Trial of Karen Read, The Murder Of Maddie Soto, Catching the Long Island Serial Killer, Awaiting Admission: BTK’s Unconfessed Crimes, Delphi Murders: Inside the Crime, Chad & Lori Daybell, The Murder of Ana Walshe, Alex Murdaugh, Bryan Kohberger, Lucy Letby, Kouri Richins, Malevolent Mormon Mommys, Justice for Harmony Montgomery, The Murder of Stephen Smith, The Murder of Madeline Kingsbury, The Murder Of Sandra Birchmore, and much more! Listen at https://www.truecrimetodaypod.com
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    9 mins
  • A Third Stoughton Police Officer Accused In 'Cat-For-Sex' Scheme Before Sandra Birchmore's Death
    Oct 9 2024
    What happens when the very people sworn to protect become the predators? In this episode, Tony Brueski sits down with psychotherapist and author Shavaun Scott to unravel the shocking true story of Sandra Birchmore. Groomed by police officers from the age of 12, Sandra’s life took a tragic turn when she was manipulated and exploited by officers, including twin brothers Matthew and William Farwell. Matthew is now facing murder charges in her death, but the web of corruption doesn’t stop there. Former school resource officer Josh Hill is also implicated in disturbing allegations, including an exchange of a cat for sexual favors.
    Tony and Psychotherapist Shavaun explore the deep psychological manipulation behind Sandra’s exploitation and the shocking institutional corruption that enabled it. With officers wiping their phones clean, what other dark secrets are still being hidden? How deep does the corruption really go?

    Want to listen to ALL of our podcasts AD-FREE? Subscribe through APPLE PODCASTS, and try it for three days free: https://tinyurl.com/ycw626tj
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    The latest on The Downfall of Diddy, The Trial of Karen Read, The Murder Of Maddie Soto, Catching the Long Island Serial Killer, Awaiting Admission: BTK’s Unconfessed Crimes, Delphi Murders: Inside the Crime, Chad & Lori Daybell, The Murder of Ana Walshe, Alex Murdaugh, Bryan Kohberger, Lucy Letby, Kouri Richins, Malevolent Mormon Mommys, Justice for Harmony Montgomery, The Murder of Stephen Smith, The Murder of Madeline Kingsbury, The Murder Of Sandra Birchmore, and much more! Listen at https://www.truecrimetodaypod.com
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    9 mins
  • Karen Read Seeks to Delay Wrongful Death Suit as Retrial Nears in 2022 Death of Boston Police Officer
    Oct 9 2024
    Karen Read, the Massachusetts woman accused of killing her boyfriend, Boston police officer John O’Keefe, in 2022, is attempting to delay a wrongful death lawsuit filed by O'Keefe’s family until after her criminal trial. Read faces a second trial for second-degree murder and other charges in January, after her initial trial ended in a mistrial three months ago.

    According to documents filed by her attorneys, the civil suit should be postponed until the criminal case concludes to avoid compromising her Fifth Amendment rights. The wrongful death lawsuit also names Waterfall Bar & Grill and C.F. McCarthy’s as defendants, alleging they continued to serve Read alcohol on the night of the incident, despite her visible intoxication.

    The lawsuit claims that Read backed her SUV into O’Keefe during a snowstorm and left him outside, where he later succumbed to his injuries. Read’s criminal trial in July ended in a mistrial after jurors could not reach a verdict on a manslaughter charge but agreed to acquit her on charges of second-degree murder and leaving the scene. “My best guess right now is they will dispense with the first argument pretty quickly,” Suffolk University law professor Chris Dearborn commented on the upcoming appeal. “The second argument… is the one I think has a little more promise.”

    In the lead-up to the retrial, Read’s legal team is set to argue before the Massachusetts Supreme Judicial Court in hopes of having two charges dismissed, including the second-degree murder charge. This appeal could have significant repercussions for the January trial date, especially if the court takes months to reach a decision. “I don’t know if that is fair to either side,” Dearborn said, noting the challenges of preparing for trial amid ongoing legal uncertainties.

    Meanwhile, the decision to bring in special prosecutor Hank Brennan, who previously represented mobster James “Whitey” Bulger, has sparked interest. Brennan’s involvement is seen by some, including Dearborn, as an effort to underscore the prosecution’s commitment to a rigorous and ethical handling of the case. “I think this is the DA Morrissey trying to send a message to everybody that we don’t want anyone to think there is anything going on here that is untoward or not ethical,” Dearborn explained.

    With these pending legal battles, both criminal and civil, and heightened media scrutiny, the case continues to captivate Massachusetts and beyond, as Read faces another showdown in court on January 27.
    Want to listen to ALL of our podcasts AD-FREE? Subscribe through APPLE PODCASTS, and try it for three days free: https://tinyurl.com/ycw626tj
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    The latest on The Downfall of Diddy, The Trial of Karen Read, The Murder Of Maddie Soto, Catching the Long Island Serial Killer, Awaiting Admission: BTK’s Unconfessed Crimes, Delphi Murders: Inside the Crime, Chad & Lori Daybell, The Murder of Ana Walshe, Alex Murdaugh, Bryan Kohberger, Lucy Letby, Kouri Richins, Malevolent Mormon Mommys, Justice for Harmony Montgomery, The Murder of Stephen Smith, The Murder of Madeline Kingsbury, The Murder Of Sandra Birchmore, and much more! Listen at https://www.truecrimetodaypod.com
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    12 mins
  • Karen Read, Susan Birchmore, Ana Walshe, And The Trooper Proctor Connection
    Oct 8 2024
    Karen Read, Susan Birchmore, Ana Walshe, And The Trooper Proctor Connection
    What do Karen Read, Sandra Birchmore, and Ana Walsh have in common? Well, besides the fact that all of their cases seem to revolve around some highly questionable police work, there's also a connection to one investigator whose involvement is raising more than a few eyebrows—Michael Proctor. Brian Walsh, accused of killing his wife, Ana, may have done all the Googling a killer could do, but with Proctor tangled up in multiple cases, his defense is banking on some "Proctor magic" to throw things off. But is this officer's shady reputation enough to muddy the waters and potentially let a guilty man go free? Or will the dumb decisions of everyone involved just blow up in their faces? And seriously, what kind of investigator has a track record like this?

    #TrueCrime #BrianWalsh #AnaWalsh #KarenRead #SandraBirchmore #MichaelProctor #CrimeInvestigation
    Want to listen to ALL of our podcasts AD-FREE? Subscribe through APPLE PODCASTS, and try it for three days free: https://tinyurl.com/ycw626tj
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    The latest on The Downfall of Diddy, The Trial of Karen Read, The Murder Of Maddie Soto, Catching the Long Island Serial Killer, Awaiting Admission: BTK’s Unconfessed Crimes, Delphi Murders: Inside the Crime, Chad & Lori Daybell, The Murder of Ana Walshe, Alex Murdaugh, Bryan Kohberger, Lucy Letby, Kouri Richins, Malevolent Mormon Mommys, Justice for Harmony Montgomery, The Murder of Stephen Smith, The Murder of Madeline Kingsbury, The Murder Of Sandra Birchmore, and much more! Listen at https://www.truecrimetodaypod.com
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    7 mins
  • Michael Proctor, How A Single Crooked Officer Could Cause So Much Chaos In Three Murder Cases
    Oct 8 2024
    Michael Proctor, How A Single Crooked Officer Could Cause So Much Chaos In Three Murder Cases
    Was a police officer really protecting the public—or himself—when he declared Sandra Birchmore's death a suicide? This episode takes a hard look at the twisted and tragic story of Sandra Birchmore, who, as a 12-year-old girl, sought guidance through the Stoughton, Massachusetts police explorer program. Instead, she found herself preyed upon by the very people meant to protect her—the alleged Farwell brothers and a school resource officer, who passed her around in a sickening game of abuse. Add in the involvement of Trooper Michael Proctor, the first officer on the scene, who not only signed off on Birchmore’s “suicide” but also had his hands in other questionable cases, including that of Anna Walsh and Karen Read. When the same officer seems to be at the center of multiple controversial investigations, what’s really going on behind the badge?
    Want to listen to ALL of our podcasts AD-FREE? Subscribe through APPLE PODCASTS, and try it for three days free: https://tinyurl.com/ycw626tj
    Follow Our Other Cases: https://www.truecrimetodaypod.com
    The latest on The Downfall of Diddy, The Trial of Karen Read, The Murder Of Maddie Soto, Catching the Long Island Serial Killer, Awaiting Admission: BTK’s Unconfessed Crimes, Delphi Murders: Inside the Crime, Chad & Lori Daybell, The Murder of Ana Walshe, Alex Murdaugh, Bryan Kohberger, Lucy Letby, Kouri Richins, Malevolent Mormon Mommys, Justice for Harmony Montgomery, The Murder of Stephen Smith, The Murder of Madeline Kingsbury, The Murder Of Sandra Birchmore, and much more! Listen at https://www.truecrimetodaypod.com
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    9 mins
  • Why Disgraced Officer Michael Proctor His His Dirty Hands In So Many High Profile Cases
    Oct 8 2024
    What happens when the very people sworn to protect become the ones allegedly orchestrating the crime? Sandra Birchmore, a vulnerable 23-year-old looking for guidance after the tragic loss of her parents and grandmother, thought she found safety in the arms of law enforcement. Instead, she allegedly became a victim of grooming, sexual assault, and murder at the hands of those who were meant to protect her, including officer Matthew Farwell and his brother William, both allegedly involved in her exploitation. But why hasn't William been charged? Is he cooperating, or are there details we still don’t know?

    And just when you think things couldn’t get weirder, there's Michael Proctor—the officer who, bizarrely, was first on the scene in not only Birchmore's case but also in the Ana Walsh case. Is this a chilling coincidence, or just bad luck for an officer tied to too many twisted stories? What's really going on here?

    #SandraBirchmore #MatthewFarwell #TrueCrime #AnaWalsh #LawEnforcement #MichaelProctor #HiddenKillers
    Want to listen to ALL of our podcasts AD-FREE? Subscribe through APPLE PODCASTS, and try it for three days free: https://tinyurl.com/ycw626tj
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    The latest on The Downfall of Diddy, The Trial of Karen Read, The Murder Of Maddie Soto, Catching the Long Island Serial Killer, Awaiting Admission: BTK’s Unconfessed Crimes, Delphi Murders: Inside the Crime, Chad & Lori Daybell, The Murder of Ana Walshe, Alex Murdaugh, Bryan Kohberger, Lucy Letby, Kouri Richins, Malevolent Mormon Mommys, Justice for Harmony Montgomery, The Murder of Stephen Smith, The Murder of Madeline Kingsbury, The Murder Of Sandra Birchmore, and much more! Listen at https://www.truecrimetodaypod.com
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    11 mins