From The Boston Globe · · 50s
Matthew Farwell trial opening statements reveal prosecution and defense strategies
Prosecution and defense in Matthew Farwell trial use text messages to frame case for jury.
In brief
Prosecution and defense in Matthew Farwell trial use text messages to frame case for jury. Matthew Farwell, former Stoughton police detective, faces trial for killing Sandra Birchmore after years of sexual abuse and staging her death as suicide. Originally reported by The Boston Globe.
Opening statements set stage
Prosecution and defense delivered opening statements Friday in Matthew Farwell trial.
Prosecution uses text messages chronologically
Prosecution focused on text messages to show chronological pattern of abuse and murder.
Prosecution emphasizes abuse and murder
Prosecution repeatedly used words like 'rape' and 'abuse' to describe Farwell's crimes.
Defense claims Farwell did not kill Birchmore
Defense says Birchmore killed herself after Farwell broke up with her and denied paternity.
“regrettable”
Trial outcome to be determined
Jury will decide if Farwell killed Sandra Birchmore after years of abuse.
What to remember
Matthew Farwell, former Stoughton police detective, faces trial for killing Sandra Birchmore after years of sexual abuse and staging her death as suicide.
