South Dakota DCI to investigate Colorado state scientist accused of manipulating DNA testing

South Dakota Attorney General Marty Jackley confirms that the South Dakota Division of Criminal Investigation has been asked by Colorado authorities to conduct the criminal investigation into a former Colorado Bureau of Investigation scientist who is accused of mishandling DNA testing in at least 650 cases.

Yvonne Woods is alleged to have omitted relevant facts and tampered with DNA testing by manipulating some results. The files in question cover a 15-year-period.

In November, Colorado officials requested the South Dakota DCI conduct the criminal investigation into the Woods’ case.

Jackley says the investigation reports are being turned over to the proper Colorado prosecution authorities.

He says a search of South Dakota Forensic Lab records indicate Woods did not do any work for the South Dakota Forensic Lab. The South Dakota lab does not normally send samples to other states for testing.

March 13, 2024