That's the wife's choice, no one can make that choice for her. Even if a nieghbor was to report it, if she doesn't press charges. Nothing can be done. That's the law.

Guess that depends on where you live. In most US states domestic abuse (male or female) that show's any visible signs (bruise, small cut, red mark, anything) means an automatic trip to jail whether the person wants to press charges or not :).

Just thought I would clarify that! :P