Boston

Boston Jury Awards $42.6 Million to Man in Landmark Mesothelioma Case Against Johnson & Johnson

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BOSTON — A jury has awarded a Massachusetts man $42.6 million after finding that Johnson & Johnson was liable for his diagnosis of mesothelioma, a rare and aggressive cancer often linked to asbestos exposure. The decision highlights ongoing concerns about the use of asbestos in consumer products, particularly talc-based powders. In the trial, which concluded this week, the plaintiff, identified as Stephen Lanzo III, argued that his illness stemmed from long-term exposure to Johnson & Johnson’s talc products, which he claimed were contaminated with asbestos. The jury’s verdict reflects the belief that the company failed … Read more

Foley Hoag Strengthens Expertise with Addition of Industry Veteran Jay Reilly as Partner in Boston and DC Offices

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Boston, MA — Foley Hoag LLP announced Monday the appointment of Jay Reilly as a partner in its offices located in Boston and Washington, D.C. Reilly brings a wealth of experience to the firm, having previously worked at Saul Ewing. His background includes significant in-house roles at various pharmaceutical and technology consulting firms. At Foley Hoag, he will focus on serving clients in the biotechnology, pharmaceutical, medical device, diagnostic, and digital health sectors. In his new role, Reilly will be instrumental in negotiating licensing and collaboration agreements, facilitating venture financings, and guiding mergers and acquisitions. … Read more

Verdict in Controversial Case: Karen Read Acquitted of Murder Charges in Tragic Boston Incident

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BOSTON — A jury acquitted Karen Read on charges of second-degree murder concerning the death of her boyfriend, John O’Keefe, a Boston police officer. The verdict was delivered on June 21, 2025, as the courtroom was filled with anticipation regarding the outcome of the emotionally charged trial. Read, 45, faced allegations of having struck O’Keefe, 46, with her SUV and subsequently leaving him to succumb to the cold in a snow-covered area in 2022. The prosecution argued that Read’s actions amounted to criminal negligence, asserting she should have called for help rather than abandoning him. … Read more

Jurors Speak Out: Why They Acquitted Karen Read in High-Profile Murder Case of Boston Officer

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CANTON, Mass. — Two jurors from the recently concluded retrial of Karen Read have shared insights into their decision to acquit her of charges related to the death of her boyfriend, Boston police officer John O’Keefe. The verdict, which followed four days of deliberation, exonerated Read of second-degree murder, manslaughter while operating under the influence, and leaving the scene of a fatal incident. However, she was convicted of operating under the influence and received one year of probation. The jury’s ruling hinged on the evidence presented during the trial, which Read’s attorneys argued was insufficient … Read more