Hundreds of criminal convictions are under scrutiny in Colorado after investigators uncovered evidence that one of the state’s DNA analysts tampered with testing samples.
Yvonne “Missy” Woods, a veteran of 29 years at the Colorado Bureau of Investigation’s (CBI) crime lab, is at the center of the controversy. Officials revealed on Friday that her recent work has affected a staggering 652 cases, prompting the need for re-testing of around 3,000 samples.
Despite her retirement from the CBI, no charges have been filed against Woods yet. However, officials are combing through her entire career’s work dating back to 1994. To rectify the situation, the CBI has allocated $7.5 million for new tests, potential retrials, and even compensation for wrongfully convicted individuals.
The CBI’s statement characterized Woods’ actions as deliberate, casting doubt on the integrity of all her previous work. She is accused of manipulating, altering, and omitting data in official criminal justice records. While no evidence of falsified DNA matches was found, her deviations from standard testing protocols raise concerns about the reliability of her findings.
Woods’ lawyer asserts her cooperation with the investigation and stands by her work, claiming it reflects accurate criminal justice outcomes. However, a criminal probe into her activities remains ongoing.
CBI Director Chris Schaefer emphasized the importance of restoring public trust in institutions. He pledged a thorough and transparent process to address this breach of trust.
Moreover, the CBI’s audit of DNA analysts uncovered another case of potential data manipulation involving Chiara Wuensch from the Weld County Sheriff’s Office. Wuensch has since been terminated and is also under investigation.
