In a recent internal affairs investigation, the Colorado Bureau of Investigation (CBI) has discovered alleged data manipulation by a former DNA scientist, Yvonne "Missy" Woods. The investigation, initiated in September of last year, highlighted "anomalies" in Woods' work, leading to an inquiry into her practices.

According to the findings announced by the CBI on Friday, Woods manipulated data during the DNA testing process and posted incomplete test results in some cases. With nearly 30 years of experience at the CBI, Woods was placed on administrative leave on October 3, 2023, and subsequently retired on November 6, 2023.

The internal investigation revealed that Woods omitted essential facts in official criminal justice records and tampered with DNA testing results by excluding certain results. The CBI has identified a total of 652 cases between 2008 and 2023 that were impacted by Woods' data manipulation. Additionally, the CBI is currently reviewing her work from 1994 to 2008.

The discovery of Woods' actions casts doubt on all of her previous work, prompting the CBI to diligently review all laboratory results for any signs of data manipulation. To maintain the integrity of the inquiry, third-party investigative resources have been engaged by the CBI.

CBI Director Chris Schaefer emphasized the importance of public trust in their institutions and vowed to rectify this breach of trust in a thorough and transparent manner. In this pursuit, the CBI is conducting a comprehensive audit of all DNA analyses to ensure the accuracy and completeness of their records. This audit aims to ensure compliance with the organization's policies and procedures, as well as laboratory integrity.

Parallel to the internal investigation, a separate criminal investigation into the Woods matter began late last year and is still ongoing. The CBI continues to cooperate with law enforcement partners throughout Colorado in this regard.

During the audit and review process, the CBI made a concerning discovery indicating that an analyst employed by the Weld County Sheriff's Office at the Northern Colorado Regional Forensic Laboratory may have also manipulated DNA testing data. The CBI promptly referred this case to the Weld County Sheriff's Office, emphasizing that it is separate from the Woods case.

The internal investigation into Yvonne "Missy" Woods revealed that she omitted material facts in official criminal justice records, tampered with DNA testing results, and violated several CBI codes of conduct and laboratory policies. This investigation was initiated in September 2023 after suspicions arose regarding Woods' divergence from standard operating procedures.

To ensure independent evaluation of the scientific and technical issues involved, the CBI collaborated with members of the Kansas Bureau of Investigation during the internal investigation. Since October 3, 2023, the CBI's Quality Management team has been diligently reviewing Woods' work. Up to now, 652 cases have been identified as affected by her data manipulation between 2008 and 2023. A review of her work from 1994 to 2008 is also underway.

The review of Woods' work uncovered various types of manipulation, including the deletion and alteration of data to conceal her tampering with controls, the deletion of data to hide her failure to troubleshoot testing issues, and insufficient documentation for certain tests performed. While Woods did not falsify DNA matches or fabricate profiles, her deviations from standard testing protocols have raised questions about the reliability of her findings.

The CBI is committed to maintaining a high level of confidence in its analysts and laboratory integrity. Consequently, they are thoroughly evaluating and implementing process and procedural changes to enhance the integrity of their testing processes and results. The CBI plans to provide more information on these changes once the evaluation process is complete.