Colorado Bureau of Investigation finds Yvonne Woods manipulated data in hundreds of cases over decades

CNN — A now-former forensic scientist with the Colorado Bureau of Investigation manipulated or omitted DNA test results in hundreds of cases, an internal affairs investigation found, which prompted a full review of her work during her nearly 30-year career at the agency. The CBI released the findings of the investigation into Yvonne “Missy” Woods Friday, which concluded Woods’ handling of DNA testing data affected 652 cases between 2008 and 2023, including posting incomplete results in some cases. “Our actions in rectifying this unprecedented breach of trust will be thorough and transparent.” Analyst trained ‘generations’ of scientists, attorney says In a statement to CNN on Friday, Woods’ attorney Ryan Brackley said the findings support Woods’ earlier statements that “she’s never created or reported any false inculpatory DNA matches or exclusions, nor has she testified falsely in any hearing or trial resulting in a false conviction or unjust imprisonment.” Brackley said his client has been a “loyal and dedicated forensic scientist” during her time at the agency and has worked with and trained “generations” of prosecutors, scientists and law enforcement agents. The agency said its forensics team discovered Woods deleted and altered data that served to conceal evidence of her tampering as well as her failure to “troubleshoot issues within the testing process.” The agency said Woods’ manipulations “appear to have been the result of intentional conduct.” The CBI said it’s also conducting a “comprehensive audit” of all DNA analysts to “ensure the accuracy and completeness of its entire catalog of records.” As part of this process, the agency said it 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. … The Colorado District Attorneys’ Council estimates a statewide impact of 72,000 hours to their offices to address this situation through reworking cases for a total cost of $4,392,000.” The Department of Public Safety has also requested funding to hire an accountant “to facilitate the payments to Colorado District Attorneys’ offices.” Boulder District Attorney Michael Dougherty told CNN in a statement his office has identified 15 open cases and 55 closed cases in which Woods has testified as a witness.