[Blueface]

Being in the insurance claims business for nearly 27 years, I wish I had a dollar for every time I heard "there was no damage".

Unfortunately, I have seen and written estimates many times post that statement, where there was in fact damage, just not evident to the party causing it.
Even a scratch, if to be repaired, needs some grinding time and refinish, which is usually around 2.0 for a bumper, at the hourly labor rate, plus materials which is a set dollar amount times the hours of paint.
That just means that a scratch can in fact be several hundred dollars to repair.

Sometimes the bumper covers get damaged by being pressed against the metal reinforcement underneath and it leaves a stretched mark needing repairs.

Tough situation if your wife genuinely believed there was no damage visible. I guess that would be her defense. I know you believe your wife's version and I would too if it were my wife but I have also learned there are three sides to every story. One has to wonder why an officer would go through such trouble if in fact there was no damage.

Sorry, not trying to stir you up at all. Just being candid and offering an opinion that may have merit.
Good luck.