Trust on Trial: What the Karen Read Case and AI Teach Us About Leadership

Karen Read and her legal counsel during the first trial

Like many, I missed the first Karen Read trial-but I’ve found myself drawn into the second. If you’re not familiar, Karen Read stands accused of second-degree murder in the death of her boyfriend, Boston Police Officer John O’Keefe. As of this writing, the prosecution is still presenting its case, and I’m not here to argue guilt or innocence. Instead, I want to share an important reminder about the role trust plays in how we think, act, and lead.

Why Trust Matters-Everywhere

Trust is the invisible foundation that supports every organization, whether it’s a business, a police department, or any group serving the public. When trust is strong, teams work together, communities feel safe, and customers remain loyal. But when trust breaks down, skepticism and doubt quickly take over-with real and lasting consequences.

The recent audit of the Canton, MA Police Department during the Karen Read trial is a powerful example. While the audit didn’t find evidence of a conspiracy, it uncovered a series of procedural failures that have deeply shaken public confidence and contributed to a mistrial in the first case. Here are some of the key issues:

• No photos taken of the victim at the scene before moving him

• Critical witness interviews not conducted at the station or properly recorded

• Use of personal phones for evidence documentation

• Incomplete chain of custody for key evidence

• Lack of police presence to secure the crime scene throughout the day

• Delays and errors in handling and turning over video evidence

• Lead investigator and other officers fired following internal investigations

These lapses have led to widespread questioning-not just of the investigation, but of the department’s integrity and leadership. When trust is broken in any organization, every action and decision comes under the microscope.

The Business Parallel: Trust and AI

This same dynamic plays out in business, especially as organizations embrace powerful new technologies like artificial intelligence. Trust is fragile. If customers believe AI is being used irresponsibly or opaquely, trust can evaporate overnight. The business impact is real: customers may stop buying, turn to competitors, or share negative experiences that harm your reputation. Inside the company, lost trust can sap morale, hinder collaboration, and stifle innovation. And once trust is lost, rebuilding it is always harder and slower than losing it.

Questions Leaders Should Ask Before Deploying AI

Before launching any AI initiative, business leaders should pause and ask themselves:

• Are we solving a clearly defined business problem, and how will we measure success?

• Do we have the right data quality, infrastructure, and expertise to support this AI solution?

• What are the potential risks to customer trust, and how will we address transparency, privacy, and ethical use?

Reflecting on these questions helps organizations avoid costly missteps and reputational damage. By focusing on clear objectives, robust data and skills, and a proactive approach to risk and trust, leaders can harness AI’s potential while safeguarding customer and stakeholder confidence.

The Trust Equation

Trust isn’t built on shortcuts. It’s earned through:

• Credibility: Honest communication and demonstrated expertise

• Reliability: Consistently delivering on promises

• Intimacy: Creating environments where people feel safe and understood

• Low Self-Orientation: Prioritizing others’ interests over personal gain

Organizations that prioritize these four elements not only protect trust, but also lay the groundwork for lasting loyalty and resilience.

As we watch the fallout from the Karen Read case and navigate the evolving landscape of AI, it’s clear: safeguarding trust isn’t just the right thing to do-it’s essential for long-term success.

What are your thoughts on trust in leadership? Share your experiences or questions in the comments below!