NBC’s Dateline Unveils “The Betrayal of Sandra Birchmore” Spotlighting Chilling Allegations

Lead NBC’s Dateline on September 19 aired “The Betrayal of Sandra Birchmore,” revealing federal charges against former Stoughton detective Matthew Farwell for the 2021 death of the 23-year-old pregnant teacher’s aide and alleged police misconduct.

Nut Graf The special episode delves into courtroom developments and internal affairs findings that challenge the original suicide ruling, underscoring systemic failures and sparking calls for accountability within the Stoughton Police Department.

The Betrayal Unveiled Dateline correspondent Andrea Canning presents exclusive interviews with:

  • Stoughton Police Chief Donna McNamara, who launched an internal investigation after uncovering “disturbing” conduct by Farwell and two other officers.
  • Birchmore’s family members, who long contested the state medical examiner’s suicide ruling upon discovering she had been pregnant and in a secret relationship with Farwell.
  • Federal prosecutors, detailing the indictment charging Farwell with murdering a witness or victim and staging the scene to look like suicide.

Key Revelations

  • Farwell allegedly groomed Birchmore through the police Explorer Program when she was a minor and later strangled her upon learning of her pregnancy.
  • Matthew’s twin brother, William Farwell, and ex-Deputy Chief Robert Devine face decertification proceedings for inappropriate ties to Birchmore, though they have not been criminally charged.
  • Internal affairs uncovered tens of thousands of messages indicating sexual exploitation and a cover-up, prompting the chief to pursue revocation of all involved officers’ law enforcement credentials.

Impact and Next Steps With Farwell pleading not guilty and awaiting trial, the episode underscores broader issues of trust and oversight in law enforcement. Birchmore’s family has filed a wrongful death lawsuit against the department, and Massachusetts federal prosecutors continue to gather evidence in the high-profile case.

Subheading: Viewer Information

  • Air Date: Friday, September 19, 10 p.m. ET/PT on NBC
  • Title: “The Betrayal of Sandra Birchmore”
  • Next Steps: Federal trial date pending, decertification hearings ongoing.