In a significant development following the mistrial in the Karen Read murder case, the Massachusetts State Police announced that Trooper Michael Proctor has been relieved of his duties. The decision came on Monday, July 1, shortly after the announcement that the sensational, months-long trial had ended in a mistrial.

Colonel John E. Mawn, Jr., interim superintendent of the Massachusetts State Police, stated, “Upon learning today’s result, the Department took immediate action to relieve Trooper Michael Proctor of duty and formally transfer him out of the Norfolk County District Attorney’s Office State Police Detective’s Unit.”

Proctor will be transferred from his current unit on Sunday, July 7. He did not respond to requests for comment when approached by PEOPLE.

Proctor's inflammatory and derogatory text messages about Karen Read, which emerged during the trial, have sparked significant controversy. Read’s defense team accused Proctor of attempting to frame her, alleging he planted evidence at the scene to protect others involved. During the trial, Proctor admitted on the stand to sending unprofessional messages about Read, including calling her derogatory names.

“She's a whack-job,” Proctor texted to fellow troopers. The judge intervened during the trial, making Proctor spell out the vulgar term he used to describe Read.

The internal affairs investigation into Proctor’s conduct is ongoing. “This follows our previous decision to open an internal affairs investigation after information about serious misconduct emerged in testimony at the trial. This investigation is ongoing,” Mawn added.

The mistrial in the Karen Read case was declared by Norfolk County Superior Court Judge Beverly Cannone after the jury reported being unable to reach a unanimous verdict. Prosecutors have stated their intention to retry Read, who is accused of second-degree murder.

Read, 44, allegedly backed her SUV into her boyfriend, Boston police officer John O’Keefe, 46, and left him to die on January 29, 2022. Read claims she dropped O’Keefe off at a house party and left, while her defense argues that O’Keefe was involved in a physical altercation at the party and was later left outside.

Read’s defense team has alleged a massive cover-up involving local and state law enforcement officials. They claim that retired Boston police officer Brian Albert and others at the party know what happened and are framing Read to protect themselves. The defense has specifically accused Proctor of having personal ties with the Alberts and of manipulating evidence.

In a dramatic exchange captured by CBS News, Proctor was made to read aloud his derogatory messages during the trial, highlighting the extent of his misconduct.

“This investigation is crucial to ensure the integrity of our law enforcement practices and to address any violations of department policy,” stated an official from the Massachusetts State Police.

The trial and its ensuing controversies have captivated public attention, with many eager to see how the retrial will unfold and whether justice will ultimately be served.

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