Michigan State Police error could effect statewide alcohol cases
A Michigan State Police forensic science error could potentially effect 4,001 analyzed alcohol cases across the state.
The same lab testing error may also affect 89 cases in Wayne County, according to the Wayne County Prosecutors Office, citing an "incorrect calibration model" for the most recent statewide cases by MSP.
The error was discovered by the Michigan State Police. MSP then sent notification out to the prosector's offices affected across the state by July 7, according to Lt. Michael Shaw of the Michigan State Police.
Michigan State Police have now reportedly reprocessed those 4,001 cases using the "correct quadratic, inverse calibration model."
Shaw said but said that only 18 cases were affected in benefit of the defendant. He added that he found the Wayne County Prosecutors' release "unnecessary and inflammatory."
"Every prosecutor's office across the state was informed July 7 which tells you how long this has been going on," he said.
In Worthy's release, she said:
"It is important to note that because many alcohol-related cases are prosecuted by local city attorneys the municipalities in Wayne County they will have to determine if their cases could be similarly affected. We are currently in the process of locating the municipal attorneys and will be sending out the list to city attorneys and Detroit Corporation Counsel.
"On August 16, 2016 my office received a copy of the original report and corrected report on these cases. Today, Letter A has been sent out to attorneys representing defendants with corrected results from MSP along with the original report, and the MSP Toxicology Unit Letter."
Worthy's office says it will work to resolve any issues that arise from the information received from the Michigan State Police Forensic Services Division. Anyone with questions may contact Wayne County's Appellate Division at (313) 224-5790.
Randy Wimbley will have more tonight at 10 and 11 p.m. on The Edge.