Forensics

Thousands of criminals could go free after police chiefs confirm that TEN THOUSAND drug lab tests may have been altered

Police chiefs have confirmed that more than 10,000 cases may have been affected by rogue scientists working at a forensics laboratory.

Up to a quarter of the affected cases, across 42 police forces, were used in trials for serious crimes such as rape and murder. 

Police revealed drug test results in 900 rape cases, 275 murders and 500 sudden deaths may be unreliable. 

The rest were for traffic offences such as drug-driving. 

The scandal centres around the Manchester laboratory of Randox Testing Services, where scientists analysed samples of blood for traces of drugs and alcohol on behalf of police forces across the country, as well as for family courts that decide adoption and custody cases.

It has led to fears innocent people could languish in prison for up to another five years after being falsely convicted for serious crimes.