My boyfriend and I got into an altercation and I called the police and told them he hit me. I was intoxicated and extremely upset because he was leaving me. He didn’t hit me, he only restrained me to keep me from hitting him. He voluntarily went to the police station to tell them what happened and they arrested him. I want to recant my statement but don’t know how.
It’s not uncommon for emotions to run high during a breakup or argument, and sometimes statements made in the heat of the moment can lead to serious consequences. When police are called in a domestic situation, even a misunderstanding or exaggerated claim can result in an arrest for domestic violence or assault, especially if one person admits any form of physical contact.
If you made a statement that you now realize was inaccurate or exaggerated, you may be wondering how to recant it. Unfortunately, once a report is made and charges are filed, the situation is largely in the hands of the prosecutor—not the victim. You can’t simply “drop” the charges yourself. However, there are steps you can take to correct the record and express your wish for the truth to be known.
The best way to do this is to speak with an experienced criminal defense attorney before contacting police or the prosecutor’s office again. A lawyer can help you prepare a sworn affidavit of non-prosecution or a formal written statement that clarifies what actually happened. They can also advise your boyfriend’s defense attorney so that both sides are working toward a fair and accurate outcome.
Keep in mind that attempting to change your story without legal guidance can sometimes make things worse or raise concerns about credibility. The safest and most effective path forward is through a lawyer who understands domestic violence cases and can guide you through the process properly.
At The Law Offices of R. B. Isenberg, we help clients and families handle difficult domestic cases with care and discretion. If you or your loved one are dealing with a situation like this, contact us today for a confidential consultation to understand your options and next steps.
