Falsifying results, skipping tests, and ignoring scientific protocols -- why weren’t these concerns addressed by the Virginia state crime lab? Whistleblower Gina Demas finds herself caught in a clash between science and office politics.
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02/28/23 • 35 min
2 Listeners
Admissible: Shreds of Evidence - Ch. 5 - Politics and Science
Transcript
I think story Mechanics and VPU previously on admissible. I mean, I was in my twenties and it was disco days and these people were x FBI people with polka dot tes. They all wore white shirts and polka dot dies. It was like Jed groover Mary Jane. He seemed to think that I had totally typed it wrong, and I said, no, I didn't not type what you said. I mean that was something that was very important, certain blood types and certain secretions, and I
Ch. 5 - Politics and Science Top Questions Answered
What were the allegations made by Gina d Mess in the 1970s regarding lab director Mary Jane Burton?
Gina d Mess alleged that Mary Jane Burton was falsifying results and skipping critical controls at the lab.
Who did Gina and others approach with their concerns about Mary Jane Burton's misconduct?
Gina and others took their concerns to Dr. Paul Ferrara, the lab's chief chemist.
How did lab director Warren Johnson respond to the concerns raised about Mary Jane Burton's misconduct?
Lab director Warren Johnson did nothing in response to the concerns raised about Mary Jane Burton's misconduct.
What evidence did Gina keep to support her efforts in exposing Mary Jane Burton's misconduct?
Gina kept detailed notes, including memos and records of meetings with lab officials, to document her efforts.
How long did Mary Jane continue working at the lab despite her known misconduct?
Mary Jane continued working at the lab for more than a decade despite the knowledge of her misconduct.
Who was wrongfully accused based on Mary Jane's testimony, leading to a life sentence?
Earl Ruffin was wrongfully accused based on Mary Jane's testimony and received a life sentence.
How did Mary Jane's manipulation of evidence impact the chain of custody in court cases?
Mary Jane's manipulation of evidence disrupted the chain of custody, which is crucial for admissible evidence in court.
What misconduct of Mary Jane's did Gina mention in a letter to Warren Johnson?
Gina mentioned Mary Jane's forging of signatures on property forms in a letter to Warren Johnson.
How were Gina's complaints and allegations about the lab's protocols and misconduct received by higher-ups?
Gina's complaints and allegations about the lab's protocols and misconduct were largely dismissed by higher-ups, including Dr. Albert Tiedeman.
What action did Gina take against the lab for retaliation after blowing the whistle?
Gina filed a lawsuit against the lab, claiming retaliation for blowing the whistle on misconduct.
What will be discussed in the next episode regarding accreditation and Mary Jane's departure from the lab?
The next episode will focus on accreditation and explore the circumstances surrounding Mary Jane's departure from the lab.
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