Another Free Speech Case Dogs County

A woman named Erica Walsh was arrested on May 19, 2025, by State Police for allegedly violating a buffer zone order established around the Norfolk County Courthouse during the Karen Read trial. She was charged with misdemeanor trespassing, disturbing the peace, and court/judge/juror picketing. 

Although Walsh apparently did not carry a sign or speak with anyone, she was wearing a sweatshirt that said "criminals control Norfolk County," a message critical of local law enforcement involved in the Karen Read case, while standing in close proximity to the courthouse.

Judge Beverly Cannone had previously established a buffer zone around the courthouse to minimize potential disruptions to the trial. On the other hand, Walsh and her supporters, now including the Center for American Liberty, believe her arrest was a violation of her First Amendment rights, arguing she was exercising her right to free speech by expressing her opinions about the case.

Walsh's arrest highlights the ongoing tensions between the right to protest and the need to maintain order and ensure a fair trial during the high-profile Karen Read case, in which the prosecution has completed their portion of the trial.

The trial is currently expected to resume Friday morning. What impact that will have on yet another scheduled hearing for accused murderer and arsonist, Brendon Owen, is not clear.

Owen has been held since Dec. 2021 in the murder of his ex-wife, Shirley Branco and an assault on his mother in law as well as arson of the home he formerly shared with Branco in Franklin. Despite his objections, he has been ordered to appear in person Friday.