A federal judge has upheld a buffer zone around Norfolk Superior Court, preventing protests during Karen Read’s second murder trial. The judge rejected a motion from four Read supporters seeking to block the order, citing concerns about preserving the defendant’s right to a fair trial. The plaintiffs argued that their protests were peaceful and protected by the First Amendment.
Attorney Marc Randazza argued that the buffer zone violated the Fourteenth and First Amendments, but the judge ruled that the zone was content neutral and necessary to maintain a fair trial for Read.
Last year, Read supporters gathered outside the courthouse during the trial with signs and chanting. The buffer zone was implemented to prevent disruptive noise that could influence the jurors. The Massachusetts Supreme Judicial Court had previously upheld the buffer zone for the first trial.
Sixteen jurors have been selected for the second trial, with opening arguments expected to start soon. The trial could last up to eight weeks, with efforts to select additional jurors ongoing.
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