A federal jury in Massachusetts announced Monday that it remains deadlocked in the high‑profile case of former Stoughton police officer Matthew Farwell. The jurors, eight men and four women, have been deliberating since Friday and reported no resolution after more than four hours of discussion.

Judge’s instructions and next steps

Judge Denise Casper heard arguments from both the prosecution and defense about whether the jury should continue deliberations that night. She indicated a preference for the jurors to reconvene on Tuesday morning at 9 a.m., though she also considered the defense’s request for an 8:30 a.m. briefing. Both sides expressed willingness to return, and the judge said she would absorb the messages before making a final decision.

Case background

Farwell is charged under federal law with killing Sandra Birchmore and her unborn child in an effort to prevent Birchmore from reporting details of a sexual relationship that allegedly began when she was a minor. Prosecutors argue that Farwell staged the scene to look like a suicide, citing video from Birchmore’s apartment lobby showing both individuals wearing masks and a hood on the day of the death. The defense contends that Farwell was on his way to end the relationship and that Birchmore subsequently took her own life.

Evidence and testimony

Key evidence includes the lobby video, forensic data indicating Birchmore’s phone was never moved after the incident, and the discovery of a duffle‑bag strap around her neck. Birchmore’s cousin, Barbara, testified outside the courtroom, stating she had spoken with Birchmore that night and believes the prosecution’s narrative is false.

Historical context of deadlocked juries

This trial joins a recent string of major Massachusetts criminal cases that have ended in hung juries, including the September mistrial in the Lindsay Clancy murder case and the earlier deadlock in the Karen Read trial. While those were state‑court proceedings, Farwell’s case is being heard in federal court.

What’s next?

The judge will decide whether the jury returns Tuesday to continue deliberations or if a mistrial will be declared. If a mistrial occurs, prosecutors may decide whether to retry the case.

Original reporting: NBC10 Boston — read the source article.