أحكام الحدود
Abu Hurayrah (may Allah be pleased with him) reported that the Messenger of Allah (may Allah's peace and blessings be upon him) said: "Avert the infliction of the prescribed corporal punishments as long as you find a way out (meaning: to avoid their infliction)."
عن أبي هريرة قال: قال رسول الله -صلى الله عليه وسلم-: «ادْفَعُوا الْحُدُودَ ما وَجَدْتُمْ له مَدْفَعًا».
شرح الحديث :
This Hadīth highlights that the blood and honor of the Muslims are protected in principle. Thus, prescribed corporal punishments should not be inflicted on a Muslim unless it is established beyond a hint of doubt that the punishment must be carried out. If there is some probability or doubt, even to an insignificant extent, then the prescribed corporal punishment should not be applied against him.