Definition, Meaning & Synonyms

turn states evidence

idiom

/tɜrn steɪts ˈɛvɪdəns/

Definition

To provide testimony or inform on the actions or intentions of others, often in a legal context.

Examples

After being confronted by the police, the suspect decided to turn states evidence to reduce his sentence.
In a dramatic courtroom scene, the former accomplice turned states evidence, revealing crucial details about the crime.

Meaning

The phrase ‘turn states evidence’ typically refers to a situation where an individual who has been involved in illegal activities agrees to cooperate with law enforcement authorities against other participants, usually in exchange for leniency in their own case.