The defense in the federal trial of former Stoughton police officer Matthew Farwell rested its case on Wednesday, after calling its last two witnesses. Farwell, who is accused of killing pregnant Sandra Birchmore in 2021 and staging the scene as a suicide, declined to testify in his own defense.
Trial timeline
Opening statements began on Oct. 9, and the case has drawn national attention as the latest high‑profile Massachusetts criminal proceeding following the recent trials of Lindsay Clancy and Karen Read. The jury will not be in court on Thursday, with closing arguments and deliberations scheduled for Friday.
Courtroom restrictions
Because the trial is being held in federal court, video recording is prohibited. Readers can follow live updates provided by the court.
Public interest
The case underscores ongoing concerns about law‑enforcement accountability in Massachusetts. Community members and advocacy groups have been closely monitoring the proceedings, emphasizing the importance of a transparent judicial process.
Original reporting: NBC10 Boston — read the source article.
