Blogger “Turtleboy” Charged with Witness Intimidation in Murder Case
Aidan Timothy Kearney, also known as “Turtleboy,” found himself in hot water as he was charged with witness intimidation and conspiracy related to a criminal case. This case involves a woman accused of running over and killing her boyfriend, who happened to be a Boston police officer. Kearney made quite an entrance, wearing a hoodie that boldly proclaimed, “Free Karen Read,” as he was led into a courthouse in handcuffs.
Serious Charges
Kearney faced a series of serious charges, including multiple counts of intimidating witnesses, jurors, or law enforcement officials, and a single count of conspiracy. He entered a plea of not guilty and was released on personal recognizance, but there’s a catch – he must avoid any contact with people connected to Karen Read’s murder case.
First Amendment Defense
Kearney’s lawyer emphasized that his client “vehemently denies” these accusations and argued that Kearney’s opinions were protected by the First Amendment, which guarantees freedom of speech.
The Case Background
So, what’s the backstory? Kearney’s charges are linked to his support for Karen Read, who stands accused of running over her boyfriend, John O’Keefe, leaving him unconscious on a lawn in Canton, just outside Boston, in January 2022. Read faces a series of charges, including second-degree murder, vehicular manslaughter while impaired, and leaving the scene of an accident.
Conspiracy Theories and Cover-up Allegations
This case stirred up quite a storm on social media, with conspiracy theories circulating. Read’s attorney even alleged that there might be a cover-up involving local and state police.
Evidence of Harassment
In court, Fall River attorney Kenneth Mello, the special prosecutor handling Kearney’s case, read out messages allegedly sent by Kearney to witnesses and investigators. These messages were deemed as harassment, threats, and intimidation. It was also revealed that Kearney received material from a police dispatcher who had improperly accessed a motor vehicle database.
District Attorney’s Response
In a surprising move, District Attorney Michael W. Morrissey issued a video statement in August, condemning what he described as “absolutely baseless” harassment and vilification of witnesses involved in this case. He stressed that “innuendo is not evidence.”
The case is still unfolding, and the legal process will determine Aidan Kearney’s fate. But one thing’s for sure, it’s a serious situation that has grabbed headlines and raised questions about freedom of speech, legal boundaries, and the power of social media in legal cases.