This FOX31 Denver news article covers the guilty plea of Yvonne “Missy” Woods, the former Colorado Bureau of Investigation forensic scientist whose handling of DNA evidence affected 1,045 Colorado criminal cases. Christopher R. Decker, providing legal analysis for the news reports, explained why a proven criminal conviction rather than an allegation strengthens the claims of defendants now challenging those cases, and commented on what someone who receives a notice should do next.
FOX31 legal analyst Christopher Decker appeared on air to discuss the guilty plea of Yvonne “Missy” Woods, the former Colorado Bureau of Investigation forensic scientist who admitted to four felonies arising from her handling of DNA evidence.
The CBI has identified 1,045 criminal cases as impacted by Woods’s work over a career spanning nearly 30 years. Her plea converts what had been an allegation into a criminal conviction, and Decker explained why that distinction carries real weight for anyone currently challenging a conviction that relied on her testing.
“Those cases that are being challenged because of her work will become stronger. Their claims will become stronger now that they’re not just allegations, but they are proven criminal conduct.”
Woods is scheduled to be sentenced on September 8, 2026 and faces eight to sixteen years in prison under the terms of the agreement.
If you have received a notice that your case may have been affected, Colorado law provides a specific pathway to seek relief. Learn more about post-conviction relief in Colorado, or call our office at 303-573-5253.
Source: FOX31 Denver (KDVR)