David Yannetti

David R. Yannetti is a Boston-based criminal defense attorney and one of Karen Read's two lead trial counsel alongside Alan Jackson and Elizabeth Little. Yannetti delivered the defense's opening statement in Trial 1, laying out the theory that Read was framed by people connected to the Albert family and lead investigator Trooper Michael Proctor. Across 69 proceedings in both trials, he handled a broad portfolio of cross-examinations — first responders, eyewitnesses, Albert family members, law enforcement, and forensic witnesses — using a methodical, leading-question style focused on extracting favorable admissions rather than confrontational attacks. His cross-examinations consistently advanced two pillars of the defense case: establishing the Albert family's deep ties to Canton law enforcement, and documenting what witnesses did and did not observe on the front lawn of 34 Fairview Road in the early morning hours of January 29, 2022.