Colorado DNA Analyst Faces Forgery Charges, Raising Concerns About Over 500 Cases

Denver: Yvonne “Missy” Woods, a former Colorado Bureau of Investigation DNA scientist, is facing criminal charges. These charges stem from accusations of data tampering that have called into question the validity of over 500 criminal cases. The charges could have serious ramifications for several past criminal convictions.

Serious Charges for Alleged Misconduct

The 52-year-old Woods, who retired in 2023, faces multiple charges including forgery, attempting to influence public servants, perjury, and cybercrime. These accusations cover misconduct between 2008 and 2023, casting doubt on the accuracy of DNA testing in homicide, sexual assault, robbery, and other critical investigations.

Tampering with Evidence in Major Criminal Cases

Woods allegedly altered critical evidence and manipulated data to hasten the completion of casework, according to a law enforcement affidavit. In one high-profile case, she impacted the sentencing of defendants in homicide cases by submitting potentially unreliable evidence. While no wrongful convictions have been confirmed, many cases are now being re-examined.

Court Appearance and Consequences

Woods appeared virtually from a Denver jail after voluntarily surrendering to authorities earlier this week. During her court appearance, a Jefferson County judge highlighted the significant loss of trust in the judicial system that could result from this case, particularly related to scientific and forensic integrity.

Shocking Fall from “Star Analyst” Status

Woods had earned a reputation as a “star analyst” at the CBI but came under scrutiny for rushing her work and lacking thoroughness. This troubling pattern became evident after an internal affairs report surfaced, revealing concerns over Woods’ rushed analysis and failure to properly document testing methods.

Prosecutors and Legal Fallout

In recent cases influenced by Woods’ work, prosecutors were forced to reconsider plea deals or reduce charges. For instance, Michael Shannel Jefferson, convicted in a cold-case homicide, was offered a deal that reduced his sentence due to doubts about the evidence provided.

Widespread Impact on the Justice System

The repercussions of Woods’ alleged actions are still unfolding. A Colorado Bureau of Investigations internal report reveals issues raised as far back as 2014. Despite the delayed action, this investigation will have a significant cost, including over $11 million for reviewing previous DNA evidence. To address the scandal, the state has hired an independent lab to retest up to 3,000 DNA samples from suspect cases.

Reviewing Over 500 Criminal Cases
Authorities are in the process of reviewing more than 500 cases that could potentially be impacted by Woods’ errors. This extensive review may lead to further charges or reopening of investigations, although some cases remain unaffected. Legal analysts continue to highlight the impact of this scandal on forensic integrity across the United States.

Call for Increased Accountability
Following the scandal, state authorities have taken measures to hold the Colorado Bureau of Investigations accountable. A consulting firm, Forward Resolutions LLC, has been hired to review Colorado’s forensic science programs in response to public concerns.

With forensic science under intense scrutiny, the future of many convictions now hangs in the balance. As reviews continue, legal professionals warn that further impacts on both individual cases and the public’s trust in law enforcement could be widespread.