my sister was hit by her husband in the presence of their two young children.She made a statement to the police and he was charged assault. He is a police officer himself and has received commendations.It is the first time he has hit her and she assures me it was a 'one off'.She has since written to the CPS wanting them to discontinue the case.Does anyone know if the CPs would continue and summons her as a witness or would they respect her wishes?She has told me that her husband has not pressurised her into changing her mind about the prosecution.
No one can be compelled to give evidence, even though a witness warrant or summons may be issued. CPS is in a difficult situation as many cases may be dropped through coercion on the offenders part. In this case they will probably give up, but they may proceed to court first.