Former Stoughton police detective Matthew Farwell is on trial in a federal Boston courtroom, accused of murdering Sandra Birchmore and staging her apartment to resemble a suicide. Prosecutors allege Farwell killed the 23-year-old teacher's assistant to prevent her from revealing that he had sexually exploited her since she was 15 years old.

What are the allegations in the Matthew Farwell murder trial?

Federal prosecutors claim Farwell strangled Birchmore following an argument regarding their relationship. They argue the former officer used his professional knowledge to manipulate the crime scene. The charges include killing a witness or victim and causing the death of an unborn child. Birchmore was between eight and 12 weeks pregnant at the time of her death in February 2021.

Evidence presented to the jury has included:

  • Digital forensics showing Birchmore's phone stopped moving at 9:40 p.m. on the day she died.
  • A list of potential baby names in Birchmore's notes app, with the final name being "Matthew."
  • Analysis of 240,000 messages on Birchmore's devices, with 10% exchanged with Farwell.

How did the investigation change?

Initially, state investigators and a medical examiner ruled the death a suicide by hanging. However, Birchmore's family and friends refused to accept this conclusion. Her cousin, Angelique Pirozzi, encouraged others to report Farwell's alleged involvement, noting that Birchmore had been excited about her pregnancy.

After family members hired a private forensic expert, the medical examiner's office eventually revised the manner of death from suicide to "undetermined." The cause of death was also updated from "asphyxia by hanging" to simply "asphyxia."

What is the defense strategy?

Farwell has pleaded not guilty to all charges. His attorneys argue that Birchmore took her own life following the end of their relationship. The defense has cited her mental health struggles and pointed to DNA evidence confirming that Farwell was not the father of the unborn child.

FAQ

What is Matthew Farwell facing if convicted?

If found guilty, Farwell faces a potential sentence of life in prison.

When did the alleged exploitation begin?

Prosecutors claim Farwell began having sex with Birchmore when she was 15 and he was 27.