Turning State's

In this episode, Hyde and Holbrook discuss three cases decided by the North Carolina appellate courts in May 2026. In State v. Dobson, 190PA24 (N.C. May 22, 2026), the Supreme Court held that the odor of marijuana is a factor to be considered under the totality of the circumstances for probable cause. In State v. Myers, No. COA25-631 (N.C. Ct. App. May 20, 2026), the Court of Appeals concluded the superior court lacked jurisdiction to adjudicate two infractions. And in State v. Holt, No. COA25-560 (N.C. Ct. App. May 20, 2026), the Court of Appeals found a confrontation clause violation in a substitute analyst’s testimony on the defendant’s blood alcohol concentration.

What is Turning State's?

Turning State's is a podcast for North Carolina prosecutors and others interested in the criminal justice system in North Carolina. It is hosted by Joseph L. Hyde, prosecutor advisor with the University of North Carolina School of Government, and Jonathan Holbrook, director of training with the North Carolina Conference of District Attorneys. The podcast follows the format of a case update. Each episode features Hyde and Holbrook discussing a few criminal cases recently decided by North Carolina appellate courts. Listeners can expect to stay up to date on relevant criminal caselaw and receive expert advice on how this caselaw can inform and advance other prosecutions.

Turning State's is produced in the recording studio at the University of North Carolina School of Government. The podcast is a collaboration between the School of Government and the Conference of District Attorneys.