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FBI reviewing cases forensic expert handled

From Bob Franken
CNN Washington Bureau

WASHINGTON (CNN) -- The FBI is investigating an Oklahoma City police forensic expert whose credibility has come into question on thousands of cases, including 10 that ended in executions and 13 whose defendants wait on death row.

Joyce Gilchrist is a 21-year veteran of the Oklahoma City police force. She is on paid leave and has been unavailable for comment.

According to a leaked FBI report, her expert testimony often "went beyond the acceptable limits of forensic science."

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Oklahoma officials have also been looking into Gilchrist's work.

Gov. Frank Keating has ordered a thorough examination of the thousands of cases in which Gilchrist was involved.

"Every capital case that she touched needs to be thoroughly examined, and every non-capital case she touched needs also to be thoroughly examined," Keating said.

The focus will be on the cases carrying the death penalty. State officials insist, however, that even with the questions surrounding Gilchrist, there is no chance anyone was wrongfully put to death.

Among the cases that will be examined is that of Marilyn Plantz, who is scheduled to be executed in Oklahoma Tuesday for conspiring to kill her husband. Plantz has admitted to the crime.

Gilchrist's lawyer has said she will be "vindicated."

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