Former analyst sentenced after DNA manipulation

A former forensic analyst has been sentenced to 10 years in prison after DNA data manipulation was found linked to hundreds of criminal cases in Colorado.

According to The Guardian’s report, Yvonne ‘Missy’ Woods, who worked for the Colorado Bureau of Investigation, pleaded guilty to perjury, cybercrime, forgery and attempting to influence a public servant. Prosecutors reviewed hundreds of cases involving homicide, sexual assault and robbery after concerns about her work emerged.

DNA evidence under scrutiny

Authorities said Woods altered data, deleted information and failed to properly document testing. The investigation began in 2023 after an intern discovered missing information in a case Woods had handled in 2018. An internal investigation found concerns about her work dating back to 2014. Colorado prosecutors confirmed that Woods was sentenced on four felony charges.

At least one murder conviction was overturned after questions were raised about DNA evidence handled by Woods. Michael Clark was released from prison in 2025, while other cases have also faced challenges.

The issue reflects a wider problem in forensic science. The National Institute of Justice notes that misconduct by forensic professionals can have a ‘pervasive effect’ on the justice system.

A similar scandal involving Massachusetts forensic chemist Annie Dookhan affected more than 20 000 cases. Massachusetts officials confirmed that thousands of cases were ultimately dismissed.

Woods’ case could cost Colorado more than $11 million.