Investigation reveals inappropriate relationships involving Massachusetts police officers and young woman who committed suicide

A 19 month-long investigation by a Massachusetts police department has brought to light very troubling revelations.

According to Stoughton Police, the department learned in February of 2021 of the death by suicide of a pregnant 23-year-old Sandra Birchmore. In that same month, Stoughton Chief Donna McNamara spoke with the Norfolk State Police Detective Unit, which is attached to the Norfolk District Attorney’s Office and was informed of Matthew Farwell’s involvement with the young woman who was an officer with the department at the time.

On April 1, 2022, Farwell tendered his resignation while the investigation continued.

According to a Friday press conference by Chief McNamara, the lengthy investigation revealed that three officers had an inappropriate relationship with Birchmore who they met as a teen in a youth explorers program run by the department.

It was determined in the internal investigation that Mathhew Farewell was involved in conduct unbecoming of a police officer and not being truthful, among other charges.

William Farwell, Matthew’s twin brother, and Robert Devine face similar allegations from the investigation.

A 27-year-old Matthew Farwell engaged in an inappropriate relationship with a 15-year-old Birchmore that went on for several years. The investigation also revealed that the other two officers were involved in inappropriate activity with Birchmore. William made inappropriate cellphone exchanges with Birchmore while on duty, according to the findings, and reportedly introduced her to others.

Matthew Farwell broke off the relationship with Birchmore on February 1st, 2021, and she was found dead days later.

The investigation also revealed inappropriate contact with a female middle school student by Devine that was also previously involved in an after-school program.

A clearly outraged Chief McNamara stated Friday that the three should never serve as an officer again and all three have since resigned.

The investigation also revealed inappropriate communication between a military recruiter and Birchmore.

Chief McNamara also stated that the program where officers met Birchmore has been disbanded.