Sandra Birchmore: The Former Officer on Trial for Her Death
Sandra Birchmore wanted to become a police officer. At 12, she joined the Stoughton Police Explorers program in Massachusetts, a youth program designed to introduce young people to law enforcement careers. Sandra looked up to the adults who taught there and remained connected to some of them long after she left the program.
The Police Explorers Program
Federal prosecutors allege that Matthew Farwell, then a Stoughton police officer and Explorers instructor, developed a private relationship with Sandra while she was a teenager. The federal indictment alleges he engaged in sexual conduct with Sandra before she turned 16 and that the relationship continued for years.
A Stoughton Police Department internal affairs investigation later found that Matthew, his twin brother William Farwell, and former Deputy Chief Robert Devine had inappropriate relationships or communications with Sandra. All three men resigned from the department. Those internal findings are separate from the federal criminal case against Matthew.
Sandra's Death and the Original Ruling
On February 4, 2021, Sandra was found dead in her Canton apartment. She was 23 years old and pregnant with her first child. Her death was initially classified as suicide by asphyxia by hanging. In 2026, the Massachusetts medical examiner amended the death certificate, changing the manner of death to undetermined.
Federal prosecutors allege that Matthew visited Sandra at her apartment on February 1, strangled her, and staged the scene to look like a suicide. They allege he acted to prevent Sandra from sharing information about possible federal offenses with law enforcement. Matthew denies responsibility and has pleaded not guilty. His defense maintains that Sandra died by suicide.
The Federal Trial of Matthew Farwell
The federal case charges Matthew with killing a witness or victim to prevent communication with law enforcement. A superseding indictment also charges him with causing the death of Sandra's unborn child. The prosecution must prove every charge beyond a reasonable doubt.
As of October 9, 2026, a jury has been seated in Boston federal court and opening statements are expected to begin that day. In this episode, we follow Sandra's life, the original suicide ruling, the system that failed to protect her, and the federal case now bringing her death before a jury.
Sources:
The Sandra Birchmore Case: Ex Stoughton Police Detective Indicted on Murder Charges
Could Sandra Birchmore’s Alleged Killer Be Charged with Larceny?
Family of former Stoughton police explorer files wrongful death lawsuit against 3 ex-officers
https://s3.documentcloud.org/documents/25079501/farwellindictment.pdf
Sexual relationship between Stoughton police officer and minor detailed in report - masslive.com
Matthew Farwell, charged in Sandra Birchmore's death, to remain in custody until trial - CBS Boston
Former Stoughton deputy chief Robert Devine decertified over misconduct allegations | GBH
Sandra Birchmore’s mental health history allowed in Matthew Farwell trial
