"If they weren't Mirandized, nothing they said can be used as evidence, nor can it be used to develop any evidence against them"
I'm not certain about this. If they were offering statements voluntarily, and were not under arrest, then maybe what they say can be used--since they freely offered the info.
(Lawyer types may have to weigh in on this).
In any case, they didn't say anything incriminating, because there was nothing to be incriminating about.
Only in a corrupt jurisdiction like Durham (where, if there had been an honest judge, he would have stopped Nifong at the very first setting) could such a railroading be accomplished.
(Nifong is not acting alone.)
From John in Carolina :
"Members of the North Carolina Bar willing to file additional grievances against Mr. Nifong with regard to ethics rules 3.6 and 3.8 are encouraged to contact LieStoppers if in need of research or documentation assistance. Inquiries may be sent to: DisBarNifong@LieStoppers.com."
You're correct, CondorFlight.
Miranda doesn't kick in until you are in custody (i.e. under arrest).