Federal agents provided testimony during the fourth day of the Matthew Farwell murder trial in South Boston, detailing digital evidence linked to the death of Sandra Birchmore. The former Stoughton police officer faces charges for allegedly killing Birchmore and her unborn child more than five years ago.

What did the digital evidence reveal?

FBI digital forensic examiner Christopher Beckstrom told the jury that Birchmore’s phone stopped moving at 9:40 p.m. on February 1, 2021, the date she is believed to have died. During his examination of the devices, Beckstrom identified several key pieces of information:

  • A list of baby names in Birchmore's notes app, with the final name being "Matthew."
  • Google searches by Farwell regarding whether deleted iMessages could be recovered.
  • A search by Farwell asking, "Can you revoke consent in Massachusetts?"

How did the investigation evolve?

Special Agent Heidi Kelsch testified that the FBI investigation began in October 2023 after tips from a local law enforcement officer, a member of the public, and Stoughton Deputy Chief Brian Holmes. While the inquiry initially sought to determine if a police officer had deprived a citizen of constitutional rights, it transitioned into a murder investigation.

Kelsch and prosecutors read explicit text messages from the devices of both parties. These messages allegedly depicted a sexual relationship that began when Birchmore was 15 and Farwell was 27. Prosecutors claim Farwell strangled Birchmore and staged the scene to look like a suicide to prevent her from revealing the history of their relationship.

What is the defense's position?

Farwell's attorney did not deny that an affair occurred but argued that Birchmore died by suicide following a breakup. The defense noted that DNA testing confirmed Farwell was not the father of the unborn child. Birchmore's death was initially ruled a suicide, though the medical examiner later changed the manner of death to "undetermined."

FAQ

What charges is Matthew Farwell facing?

Farwell is charged with one federal count of killing a witness or victim and one count of causing the death of an unborn child.

What is the potential penalty for a conviction?

If found guilty, Farwell faces life in prison.