Wife asks for assault charge to be dropped against Mets' Jeurys Familia

The prosecutor confirmed Familia's wife doesn't want to pursue charges

Bianca Rivas, the wife of Jeurys Familia, has asked authorities to drop the simple assault charge against the Mets closer, reports Newsday's Jim Baumbach. Prosecutor Arthur Balsamo confirmed Rivas is not concerned for her safety and does not wish to pursue matters further.

Here are some more details from Baumbach:

"She feels pretty confident about the situation," Balsamo said. "She told me specifically that she didn't want to pursue the matter. Ultimately, that's my decision."

Rivas' attorney, Cathy Fleming, who also attended the meeting, said, "I told the court [Rivas] did not want to pursue the matter."

Judge John DeSheplo informed Familia the prosecutor may continue with the case even though Rivas would like the charges dropped, according to Baumbach. The maximum penalty for simple assault is six months in jail, a $1,000 fine, and two years probation.

Even if Balsamo decides not to pursue the case, MLB can still discipline Familia under the league's relatively new domestic violence policy. Aroldis Chapman was suspended 30 games earlier this year even though no criminal charges were filed, for example.

Familia, 27, was arrested at his New Jersey home in the early morning hours on October 31. Rivas told the 911 operator Familia was "going crazy" and "drunk." She suffered a scratch on her chest and a bruised cheek.