Judge Dismisses Charges Against Richard Schiffer Jr.

A Massachusetts judge dismissed criminal harassment and witness intimidation charges against Richard Schiffer Jr., a supporter of Karen Read, who was accused of leaving rubber ducks and fake $100 bills in support of Read's defense. Judge Brian K. Walsh ruled that Schiffer's actions, though seen as immature, were protected under the First Amendment as they constituted political speech. The next hearing for the remaining misdemeanor littering charges is set for January 17. This ruling coincides with the decision to delay Read's retrial, originally set for January, to April following a previous mistrial. Schiffer's attorney praised the ruling, asserting there was no basis for the charges against Schiffer. The ongoing case involves allegations against Read relating to the death of Boston police officer John O’Keefe.