Thursday morning, the domestic violence case against Mets closer Jeurys Familia was dismissed by a judge in New Jersey.

 

Familia was arrested at his Fort Lee, New Jersey home on October 31 and charged with simple assault after police found reason "to believe that domestic violence had occurred." The victim, Familia's wife Bianca Rivas, asked for the charge to be dropped last month because she does not fear for her safety. Police found Rivas with a scratch on her neck and a bruised cheek.

 

Now, just because the case was dismissed in court, it doesn't mean Familia is free from discipline by MLB. The league can still suspend him under their domestic violence policy. Aroldis Chapman was suspended 30 games last year even though he was not charged with a crime following his alleged domestic violence incident last October. Chances are Familia will receive a similar ban.

 

The prosecutor could have gone forward with the case against Familia even though Rivas asked for the charge to be dropped. The maximum penalty for simple assault in New Jersey is six months in jail, two years probation, and a $1,000 fine.

 

The Mets are said to be in the market for relief help to help bolster the bullpen while Familia serves a potential suspension.