I believe in second chances and certainly in rehabilitation. But...that typically involves at least a little bit of time, and in the case of a criminal act...a real set of consequences. As I understand it, the state of Maryland has a shall issue charges law for any incident involving domestic violence. The victims doesnt have to file charges. If mandatory reporters become aware of the incident they must call the police and the police must file charges. The victim can even be compelled to give testimony (not really needed in this case). The law exists to protect battered spouses...people that are unable, unwilling, or just too terrified to file charges.
I dont think the part that completely indicts Ray Rice is him knocking her out. Sure...that was horrific and that was the criminal act. But if he had in the moment collapsed on the floor, sobbed, held her, called 911, screamed for help, SOMETHING...ANYTHING that demonstrated remorse, I would be inclined to readily accept his conversion. Instead...he dragged...kinda dragged...kicked at her...dragged some more...walked away when someone else walked up...the video is very damning.
Personally...I think the Michael Vick treatment would have been in order. Charges...some jail time...some rehab...and then if a team wanted to take a chance on him, so be it.