turn state's evidence
Testify against co-conspirators
To turn state's evidence is to testify against one's accomplices in a crime, typically in exchange for immunity from prosecution or a reduced sentence.
The phrase is primarily American legal terminology; British English uses "turn Queen's (or King's) evidence." Someone who turns state's evidence becomes a cooperating witness, often providing insider knowledge that prosecutors couldn't otherwise obtain.
The getaway driver turned state's evidence and identified everyone involved in the robbery.
- accompliceCrime's willing helper
- plea bargainNegotiated criminal case resolution
- cut a dealReach a mutual agreement
- cooperating witnessDefendant aiding investigators
- informantOne who provides intelligence
witness protection · grand jury · betrayal · conspiracy · defense attorney · moral dilemma · testimony · sworn statement · whistleblowing · organized crime · blackmail · integrity · affidavit · accountability · prosecutor · undercover agent · retaliation · coercion
turn state's evidenceremain silent
take the fall · keep mum · stonewall · keep quiet · take the fifth
turn state's evidencestand up
Rise to feet
take the fall · take the heat · keep faith · stand tall · ride or die
turns, turned, turning, turner, turners, state, states, stated, stating