Former Colorado Forensic Scientist Manipulated DNA Test Results in Hundreds of Cases, Investigation Finds
In a shocking revelation, it has been discovered that a forensic scientist with the Colorado Bureau of Investigation (CBI) manipulated or omitted DNA test results in hundreds of cases. Yvonne “Missy” Woods, a 29-year veteran of the agency’s crime lab, is at the center of the scandal that has raised serious concerns about the integrity of forensic testing in the state.
The investigation into Woods’ misconduct was initiated after the CBI became aware that DNA sample testing performed by her may have deviated from standard operating procedures. As a result, Woods was placed on administrative leave in October and eventually retired on November 6. The internal affairs investigation found that her mishandling of DNA testing data affected 652 cases between 2008 and 2023, including posting incomplete results in some cases. A review of her work from 1994 to 2008 is also underway, further highlighting the extent of her potential misconduct.
“This discovery puts all of her work in question, and CBI is in the process of reviewing all her previous work for data manipulation to ensure the integrity of all CBI laboratory results,” stated the agency. To ensure an unbiased review, third-party investigative resources have been brought in to protect the integrity of the inquiry.
While the investigation did not find evidence of falsified DNA matches or fabricated data, it did reveal that Woods had omitted material facts in official criminal justice records, tampering with DNA testing results, and violating agency policies. This breach of trust has shaken public confidence in the institution and prompted a comprehensive audit of all DNA analysts within the CBI to ensure the accuracy and completeness of its entire catalog of records.
The implications of Woods’ misconduct are far-reaching. Boulder District Attorney Michael Dougherty revealed that Woods had testified as a witness in 15 open cases and 55 closed cases handled by his office. Prosecutors around the state are anxiously awaiting information about the impact on victims, the accused, and their ability to deliver justice. It is still too early to determine whether any cases will need to be re-tried, but the potential consequences of Woods’ actions cannot be understated.
One case that sheds light on the consequences of Woods’ faulty analysis is that of James Hunter, a 64-year-old currently in prison. Hunter’s attorney, Mark Burton, filed a federal lawsuit on his behalf, alleging that Woods fabricated and presented false evidence that led to Hunter’s wrongful conviction for burglary and sexual assault. Woods conducted a microscopic examination of hairs collected from the crime scene, which was used as evidence against Hunter. However, a subsequent examination revealed that the hairs belonged to the victim, prompting the dismissal of charges against him. Yet, new evidence of a hair was introduced ten months later, leading to Hunter’s indictment and subsequent conviction. The lawsuit highlights the lack of verification or record of collection of this hair from the crime scene, raising questions about the integrity of the evidence presented.
As investigations continue into Woods’ conduct, the CBI is committed to rectifying this breach of trust in a thorough and transparent manner. The agency aims to restore public trust in its institutions and ensure that such misconduct does not occur again. The full extent of the damage caused by Woods’ manipulation of DNA test results is yet to be determined, but it is clear that the implications are significant.
The CBI’s collaboration with third-party investigative resources and its commitment to reviewing all previous work by Woods demonstrate its dedication to uncovering the truth and delivering justice. It is now more important than ever to ensure that forensic testing procedures are robust and subject to stringent oversight to prevent such misconduct in the future. The trust placed in forensic scientists to provide accurate and reliable evidence is crucial for our criminal justice system to function properly. The discovery of Woods’ misconduct serves as a reminder of the need for continuous vigilance and accountability in forensic science.
