Colorado Forensic Scientist Manipulated DNA Test Results in Hundreds of Cases

After an internal affairs investigation, the Colorado Bureau of Investigation (CBI) revealed that a former forensic scientist, Yvonne “Missy” Woods, manipulated or omitted DNA test results in hundreds of cases during her nearly 30-year career at the agency. The investigation concluded that Woods’ handling of DNA testing data affected 652 cases between 2008 and 2023, including posting incomplete results in some cases. Additionally, a review of her work from 1994 to 2008 is currently underway.

Review of Previous Work

The CBI expressed the need to review all of Woods' previous work for data manipulation to ensure the integrity of all CBI laboratory results. As a response, the agency brought in third-party investigative resources to protect the integrity of the inquiry. Woods, a 29-year veteran of the agency’s crime lab, was placed on administrative leave in October after the CBI became aware of the potential deviation from standard operating procedures in DNA sample testing. She subsequently retired on November 6 and did not perform any laboratory work thereafter.

Current Investigation and Collaboration

A separate criminal investigation into Woods’ conduct is ongoing, and the CBI is actively working with law enforcement agencies across the state. Colorado Attorney General Phil Weiser declined to comment on the criminal case against Woods when contacted by CNN on Friday. Notably, the CBI internal investigation, conducted in collaboration with the Kansas Bureau of Investigation, did not find evidence of Woods falsifying DNA matches or fabricating data. However, it revealed that Woods had omitted material facts in official criminal justice records, tampered with DNA testing results, and violated agency policies.

Attorney’s Response and CBI’s Actions

In response to the findings, Woods’ attorney, Ryan Brackley, reiterated Woods’ earlier statements that she had not created or reported any false inculpatory DNA matches or exclusions, nor had she testified falsely in any hearing or trial resulting in a false conviction or unjust imprisonment. The CBI emphasized the need to rectify the breach of trust and assured that a comprehensive audit of all DNA analysts is underway to ensure the accuracy and completeness of its entire catalog of records. The agency also discovered a separate case in which an analyst with the Weld County Sheriff’s Office at the Northern Colorado Regional Forensic Laboratory may have also manipulated testing data.

Impact on Legal Proceedings

Boulder District Attorney Michael Dougherty stated that 15 open cases and 55 closed cases in which Woods has testified as a witness have been identified. Prosecutors are anxiously awaiting information due to the impact on victims, the accused, and the ability to serve justice. Similarly, the office of Colorado’s Fourth Judicial District Attorney was informed by CBI of 75 potentially affected cases within its jurisdiction, clarifying that Woods was not used as an expert witness in any of those cases.

Wrongful Conviction Lawsuit

Subsequent to Woods’ resignation, a federal lawsuit was filed on behalf of James Hunter, a prisoner, alleging that Woods’ faulty analysis led to his wrongful conviction for burglary and sexual assault. The lawsuit claims that Woods provided fabricated and false evidence, ultimately resulting in Hunter’s prosecution and trial. Despite Woods filing a motion to dismiss the complaint, the lawsuit brings to light the potential repercussions of her actions on legal proceedings.