Houston Forensic Science Center analyst Rochelle Austen terminated partially due to proficiency test errors, HFSC says [Video]

HOUSTON, Texas (KTRK) — A former Houston Forensic Science Center employee whose alleged faulty evidence-processing work may impact more than 550 criminal cases, including Migos rapper Takeoff’s murder, was terminated partially due to a proficiency test failure, according to her former employer.

On Thursday, the HFSC disclosed information to Eyewitness News regarding the alleged mishandling of evidence in criminal cases handled by former forensic analyst Rochelle Austen.

In a statement, the HFSC said Austen committed errors in handling proficiency test materials, adding that the tests don’t involve actual cases or evidence. Still, the center said they’re administered to test a forensic expert’s skills and understanding of the institute’s processes.

“Even though this error did not occur in a case, by law, HFSC is required to disclose to the (Harris County) District Attorney’s Office any potential issues with a forensic employee’s proficiency. Because forensic analysts can be called to testify about their work, attorneys have a right to …