text: what is the penalty for giving a false written statement to the cops? can they or will they incarcerate you? domestic violence charges do not just go away like they use to. even though they can be dropped later by the state the arrested person still will have a criminal history that will show one charge and no conviction. the da may decide to drop the charges when you go in front of a judge if there is a bad witness or no witness willing to testify. a wife can not be compelled to testify against her husband just because the state decides to prosecute. the spouse needs to contact the agency that is handling the case and the da or prosecutor that is handling it for the state and i am sure something can be worked out mutually. domestic violence is frowned upon now and carries stiff sentences so try and avoid domestic violence at all costs.