In a bizarre episode dubbed “Duckgate,” a Stoughton man is facing criminal charges for scattering rubber ducks around Canton in support of Karen Read, who is involved in a high-profile court case. The ducks, branded with messages protesting the case, have prompted authorities to pursue witness intimidation charges. The case revolves around Read allegedly intentionally running over her boyfriend, Boston Police Officer John O’Keefe, who later died. Read’s lawyers claim she was framed and are implicating a local family in the incident. Despite a mistrial in her first trial, a retrial is scheduled for January.
The case has garnered national attention, with supporters rallying outside the courthouse and promoting conspiracy theories. Canton police have documented multiple instances of rubber ducks appearing around town, with messages targeting specific individuals. The accused man, Richard Schiffer Jr., faces charges of witness intimidation, harassment, and littering for his alleged involvement in the duck campaign. The ducks are linked to a statement made by one of Read’s defense attorneys during a pre-trial hearing. Schiffer has admitted to starting the campaign but claims it was a joke.
The case has taken a peculiar turn with the involvement of bloggers and individuals facing charges for similar incidents. The accused man’s arraignment is scheduled for later this month as the case continues to unfold, drawing attention for its unconventional tactics and impact on the ongoing legal proceedings.
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