I really want OP to get paid for his work. I feel bad for everything he's going through with Freelancer and what they've gone through the past two years and most importantly, the stress in which his wife is going through. Thanks for emailing on behalf of OP, glad to hear Matt was able to respond to you quickly.
Update: I've emailed several times now with Matt, and he's definitely on top of the situation. I get the impression that he's being vague in his responses to respect OP's privacy (and the others involved). I appreciate that, and he's done a stellar job of responding in general.
Anyway, I think there is more than meets the eye here, and I should have given Freelancer.com a bit more benefit of the doubt. I do hope that eventually more information will become available, as this is a serious issue.
Edit- got an email back from Matt in about 20 minutes, saying they are looking into it. Fingers crossed, OP - we are behind you.