Former Stoughton Police Detective Indicted for Murder of Pregnant Woman
Stoughton, Massachusetts – A former police detective from Stoughton is facing serious charges after being accused of murdering a 23-year-old woman in 2021. The woman, Sandra Birchmore, was pregnant at the time of her death, a situation that has raised significant concerns in the community.
Grand Jury Indictment Filed
On Tuesday, a grand jury in federal court filed an indictment against Matthew Farwell, previously a detective with the Stoughton Police Department. The indictment alleges that Farwell strangled Birchmore to death in her Canton apartment and attempted to cover up the crime by making her death appear as a suicide. Initially, Birchmore’s death was ruled a suicide by the Office of the Chief Medical Examiner.
The grand jury claims that Farwell had a sexual relationship with Birchmore that began when she was just 15 years old. Birchmore participated in a youth program for aspiring law enforcement professionals called the Stoughton Police Explorers Academy, where Farwell was a volunteer instructor. Federal prosecutors allege that Farwell abused his position and authority to sexually exploit Birchmore.
Timeline of Events
According to the indictment, Birchmore learned she was pregnant in December 2020 and informed Farwell that he was the father. Shortly after, a friend contacted the Stoughton Police Department, expressing concerns about the nature of Farwell’s relationship with Birchmore. Days later, on February 4, 2021, she was found dead in her apartment.
Federal authorities suggest that Farwell’s actions after Birchmore’s pregnancy announcement indicated he sought to silence her. Acting U.S. Attorney for Massachusetts, Joshua Levy, stated, “When it became clear that Mr. Farwell could no longer control Sandra Birchmore, he allegedly silenced her permanently.”
Investigation and Evidence
An affidavit from an FBI special agent detailed troubling evidence surrounding Birchmore’s final days. In the week leading up to her death, Birchmore reportedly told a friend that Farwell had requested a key to her apartment and had been acting suspiciously.
After her death, investigators discovered Birchmore with a duffel bag strap tied around her neck, which was connected to a closet door Farwell had previously inspected. A medical professional, consulted by federal prosecutors, has raised doubts about the original suicide ruling, suggesting instead that Birchmore was a victim of homicide.
Response from Law Enforcement
Stoughton Police Chief Donna McNamara expressed her horror regarding the accusations against Farwell. “The alleged murder of Sandra is a horrific injustice,” she stated. “The allegations represent the worst possible breach of trust in law enforcement.” Chief McNamara confirmed that the department is cooperating fully with the FBI during their ongoing investigation.
Public Reaction
A protest took place outside the federal courthouse as community members demanded accountability for the investigators who previously ruled the case a suicide. Protestor Allison Taggart remarked, “This charge should have come a long time ago. It never should have gone on this long.”
Future Proceedings
Farwell was arrested on Wednesday at a shopping plaza in Revere, Massachusetts, and his arraignment took place shortly after. He pleaded not guilty to the charges against him and is currently being held without bail. If convicted, he faces a mandatory life sentence for the alleged murder.
The possibility of the death penalty has not been ruled out, and extensive discussions are ongoing at the Department of Justice regarding whether to pursue this path. A hearing to discuss Farwell’s detention is scheduled for September 10.
Investigative Findings and Lawsuits
In 2022, an investigation revealed that Farwell, along with his twin brother and another officer, violated department policies in connection with Birchmore. Findings indicate a concerning pattern of behavior towards her, prompting further calls for justice from her family who have filed a civil lawsuit against the Stoughton Police Department and the officers involved. A pathologist working for the family has concluded that Birchmore’s death was due to strangulation and was a homicide. Chief McNamara expressed her discontent with these findings.
The case involving Matthew Farwell is ongoing and remains a sensitive issue for the Stoughton community, highlighted by the intense emotions and demands for justice that have surfaced since Birchmore’s tragic death.
