I don't know much about the law not being an attorney. I know this case should have not been about his reelection. Peoples lives have been affected by his ineptitude.
With his above admission I would think it would warrant his being barred from running for office and his possible disbarment.
NC isn't going to do anything to Nodong. The only way to get rid of him is to shoot him or vote him out. It may be that the best thing that can be made of what the dumbassed Durham voters have wrought is to vote for Cheek. Then, when he refuses to take office and serve, they'll be stuck with whatever other moron Easley visits on them. Maybe that person (assuming he doesn't re-appoint Nodong) will have the sense to drop the charges or get a special prosecutor appointed.
Then, when Cheek runs for councilman or commissioner or whatever he is, vote HIM out.
I'm still hoping that there is some hook by which the defense team can get this into federal court.