Former Colorado analyst pleads guilty to four felonies in DNA testing case

A former forensic analyst with the Colorado Bureau of Investigation pleaded guilty Tuesday to four felony counts tied to allegations that she manipulated DNA test data. Yvonne “Missy” Woods entered pleas to committing a cybercrime, perjury, attempting to influence a public servant, and forgery. Dozens of other counts were dismissed under the plea agreement.

Background of the investigation Authorities said Woods altered data to conceal tampering, deleted records showing she failed to troubleshoot testing problems, and did not fully document tests. The misconduct affected cases involving homicide, sexual assault, and robbery.

The investigation began in September 2023 after an intern found missing information in a 2018 case handled by Woods. Prosecutors reviewed hundreds of cases as a result.

Case outcomes and state response At least one murder conviction was overturned, and prosecutors are seeking to retry the defendant. In two homicide cases, defendants accepted lesser sentences because prosecutors feared Woods’ involvement could lead to acquittals.

State officials have said the response to the misconduct could cost more than $11 million. The bureau stated that Woods’ actions constituted intentional criminal fraud and did not reflect its practices. The bureau said it has implemented changes and is committed to following nationwide best practices in forensic science.