Massachusetts State Police Sgt. Bukhenik Reassigned After Karen Read Trials

Massachusetts State Police Sergeant Yuri Bukhenik, a key investigator in the Karen Read case, has been transferred from the Norfolk County District Attorney’s Office to an administrative role in the Division of Standards and Training. This reassignment comes weeks after Read was acquitted of murder and manslaughter charges related to the 2022 death of her boyfriend, Boston Police Officer John O’Keefe, with the jury convicting her only of operating under the influence. Bukhenik faced scrutiny during the trials, particularly regarding his supervision of former lead investigator Trooper Michael Proctor, who was fired for sending inappropriate and profane text messages about Read. An internal affairs investigation found Bukhenik should have taken stronger disciplinary action against Proctor, resulting in Bukhenik forfeiting five vacation days. State Police emphasized ongoing efforts to improve investigative training, oversight, and accountability following the case and are currently seeking applicants for Bukhenik’s former detective position. Officials stated that personnel decisions aim to serve the department’s public safety mission and maintain public trust.