Can I have a person arrested for assault and battery once I declined directly after the incident happened?

Question

They continue to harass and threaten me. Can I get a retraining order or have the person arrested? They caused bodily damage as well.

Answer 1

NO!

Answer 2

the person can not be arrested until you have the restraining order in place.  then if the person continues to bother you they will be in violation of the order every time.  until it is in place there is not much any one can do about it.  law enforcement can act on this one you have the restraining order.  if you declined for charges to be pressed.. it looks bad to change your mind later depending on how long it has been.  the courts might inquire to why you are changing your mind and it might look suspicious.  you cant decide to press charges on something that had already occurred because the person is still doing it.  start a new case and get a restraining order.

Answer 3

i know a restraining order yes, but as far as the arresting, i'd hold off unless you cannot get the order, or if they violate the order.

Answer 4

As far as the arrest, yes. There is a time limit for filing a criminal complaint. It is called a Statute Of Limitation. As long as you are within that time limit you can still sign a complaint. Depending on the state and the particular crime, it usually ranges from a month or two to several years.