The federal murder trial of former Stoughton police detective Matthew Farwell enters a critical phase this week as medical experts prepare to testify. Prosecutors allege Farwell killed 23-year-old Sandra Birchmore and her unborn child in 2021 to conceal an illegal sexual relationship that allegedly began when she was a minor.

What will the medical testimony reveal?

Forensic pathologist Dr. María Del Mar Capó-Martínez is expected to provide details from the 2021 autopsy. This testimony is central to the Matthew Farwell murder trial because it addresses the fundamental cause of death.

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While Capó-Martínez initially ruled the death a suicide, she later withdrew that opinion, changing the manner of death to undetermined. Federal prosecutors argue her original conclusion was "premature" and based on incomplete information. They claim she was unaware of several key pieces of evidence, including:

  • Surveillance footage of Farwell at Birchmore's apartment.
  • Graphic text messages exchanged between the pair.
  • Evidence regarding sexual practices between the two.

Who is involved in the upcoming testimony?

Jurors may also hear from Farwell's twin brother, William Farwell. During the investigation, William reportedly told the FBI that state officials insisted the death would be treated as a suicide.

Earlier testimony from Birchmore's longtime therapist, Diala Alkhalil, described the victim as a resilient "fighter" who was not suicidal. This contradicts the defense's theory, which suggests that the antidepressant Zoloft, prescribed to Birchmore, could have triggered suicidal thoughts.

What are the charges against Farwell?

Farwell has pleaded not guilty to the murder charges. Beyond the killing, prosecutors allege he committed several federal crimes, including:

  • Coercion and enticement related to sexual abuse.
  • Deprivation of rights under color of law.
  • Wire fraud involving his use of police time for sexual encounters.

FAQ

Did Farwell father Birchmore's baby?

No. While Birchmore believed Farwell was the father, postmortem DNA testing revealed the child's father was actually Jason Pickard.

What was the motive for the alleged crime?

Prosecutors claim Farwell killed Birchmore to prevent her from revealing his alleged sexual misconduct and other federal crimes to authorities.