The deputy chief of the National Police in Spain has resigned amid allegations that he attempted to intimidate a female officer who reported her superior for sexual assault.
A serious situation has unfolded within Spain's National Police, as the deputy chief, Óscar San Juan, is implicated in efforts to silence a female officer who reported sexual assault by her superior, José Ángel González. In July 2025, San Juan reportedly contacted the officer with an offer of a professional relocation in exchange for her silence regarding the allegations. This attempt to coerce the officer has been documented in a legal complaint that gained traction in January 2026, leading to significant political repercussions.
The incidents highlight a troubling culture within the National Police surrounding the handling of sexual misconduct allegations. Minister Fernando Grande-Marlaska publicly stated he was unaware of the allegations against González, reflecting potential lapses in accountability and oversight within the police force. In response to the report and mounting public pressure, González resigned from his position as chief of the National Police, acknowledging the severity of the claims made against him and the need for organizational change.
This situation has sparked a broader conversation about the treatment of sexual assault allegations, particularly in law enforcement. It raises critical questions about the processes in place to protect those who come forward with claims of misconduct, as well as the responsibilities of leadership in addressing such allegations transparently. There is a pressing demand for reforms to ensure that victims feel safe and supported when reporting incidents of abuse.
