San Francisco Crime Lab’s Mishandling of Evidence May Lead to New Trial for Federal Defendant

On June 15, 2010, defense attorneys for Dennis Cyrus, Jr., argued before a federal judge that forensic evidence handled by the San Francisco Police Department’s crime lab and leading to Cyrus’ conviction may have been tainted. His attorneys requested that the prosecution disclose a report of the crime lab’s errors.

Cyrus was convicted of murdering three people, including a witness to a federal trial. Cyrus’ attorneys contend that the crime lab’s poor evidence management requires that the federal court grant Cyrus a new murder trial.

The San Francisco Police Department lab technician at the center of the potential scandal, Deobrah Madden, retired in March under suspicion that she had stolen drugs from the lab. She and other lab workers had earlier testified against Cyrus at his murder trial.

State prosecutors have already dismissed hundreds of narcotics cases because of the San Francisco crime labs’ possible mishandling of trial evidence. The scandal threatens the political campaign of San Francisco District Attorney Kamala Harris, candidate for California attorney general.

The government’s handling of crime evidence is of utmost importance to a fair trial. At Wallin & Klarich, we have over 40 years experience handling all issues related to criminal trial, including evidence. We will ensure that any possible evidence mishandling by the prosecutor will be identified and resolved in a way most favorable to your case. Call us today at (888) 280-6839. We will be there when you call.

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