Once police respond to a domestic violence call, the case often moves forward with or without the accuser’s support. In Kentucky, only the prosecutor can drop domestic violence charges.
What happens after an arrest
Police arrest a person when they see evidence of domestic violence. In Kentucky, they don’t need a warrant if they believe an assault took place. After the arrest, the accused may go before a judge within 24 hours, and a no-contact order often follows. The prosecutor then takes over. Even if the accuser wants to back out later, their request doesn’t control the outcome. Prosecutors review all available evidence, including 911 calls, injuries, witness statements, and police reports.
Can the accuser change their story?
The accuser can change their story but doing so doesn’t guarantee the case will end. If the accuser changes their statement, prosecutors may still push forward if they believe the original report had merit. They treat all domestic violence cases seriously and aim to protect everyone involved, especially if they suspect pressure or fear influenced the change.
When might charges get dropped?
Prosecutors may drop charges if they lack strong evidence or if witnesses refuse to cooperate. Without photos, video, medical reports, or credible statements, a case becomes harder to prove. If the accused has no criminal record and the incident seems isolated, the court might dismiss the charges under certain conditions.
Why dropping charges isn’t simple
Violent crimes cases involve high emotions and complex relationships. Prosecutors move forward to protect public safety and prevent future harm. The law ensures consistent legal action and reinforces the message that abuse brings legal consequences.
