When it comes to describing someone who was conspiring with another, there are numerous synonyms that may be used instead of "was in cahoots with". One such word is colluding, which implies that two parties have come together for some unscrupulous purpose. Another option is conspiring, which suggests that the parties involved have planned and executed an illicit act. Betraying or selling out is another way to describe such behavior, which implies that someone has broken a trust or confidence. Finally, participating or cooperating in wrongdoing can also be used to describe someone who was in cahoots with another. In any case, using a synonym can help add variety and nuance to your writing.