Farwell trial defense rests after final witnesses

The defense in the trial of Matthew Farwell is expected to finish its case on Wednesday. Two final witnesses are scheduled to take the stand before the jury takes its last break.

The state has called digital forensics expert Daniel Loper and board-certified pathologist Dr. Thomas Andrew. Farwell was a police explorer volunteer and later an officer in Stoughton.

Prosecutors allege Farwell killed Sandra Birchmore at her Canton apartment in early 2021. He is accused of strangling her after she told him she was pregnant and that he was the father. DNA evidence later showed he was not the father of the unborn child.

The case also involves allegations of sexual abuse. Farwell allegedly used his position to groom Birchmore when she was 15. He continued their sexual relationship after she became an adult. He is also accused of staging her death to look like a suicide.

Opening statements began on October 9. The trial has drawn national attention as part of a series of high-profile Massachusetts criminal cases. A federal rule prohibits video in the courtroom.

The jury will not report to court on Thursday. Closing arguments and deliberations are tentatively scheduled for Friday.