state's evidence
Americannoun
-
evidence given by an accomplice in a crime who becomes a voluntary witness against the other defendants.
The defendants' case was lost when one of them turned state's evidence.
-
evidence for the state, especially in criminal trials.
noun
-
the evidence for the prosecution given on behalf of a state in a criminal prosecution
-
Brit equivalent: king's evidence. queen's evidence. evidence given for the state by an accomplice against his former associates in crime (esp in the phrase turn state's evidence )
Etymology
Origin of state's evidence
First recorded in 1790–1800
Example Sentences
Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.
They could, however, provide his defence with a glimpse into the state's evidence against him.
From BBC • Dec. 11, 2024
The state's evidence will get stronger with each passing plea as more and more insiders share information with the state and admit wrongdoing.
From Salon • Oct. 26, 2023
Michael Null’s attorney, Tom Siver, said he was so unimpressed with the state’s evidence that he did not cross-examine witnesses during 14 days of testimony.
From Seattle Times • Sep. 19, 2023
In 1970, a project about Linda Kasabian, the Charles Manson acolyte who turned state’s evidence, failed to come together; fragments would emerge in “The White Album.”
From Los Angeles Times • Dec. 27, 2021
Bram announced that certain parts of the state’s evidence would be conceded by the accused, and there was a buzz in the court.
From "Long Walk to Freedom" by Nelson Mandela
Definitions and idiom definitions from Dictionary.com Unabridged, based on the Random House Unabridged Dictionary, © Random House, Inc. 2023
Idioms from The American Heritage® Idioms Dictionary copyright © 2002, 2001, 1995 by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company. Published by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company.
