A commissioner previously involved in a sexual assault scandal has been reassigned to a new role in the National Police's Scientific Brigade following accusations of intimidation against a victim.
The National Police has reassigned commissioner Óscar San Juan, who was previously suspended from his advisory position in the Directorate Adjunta Operativa (DAO) amidst serious allegations involving his superior, José Ángel González. San Juan is now to serve as the head of the brigade at the General Directorate of Scientific Police. The move comes in the wake of a lawsuit filed by an inspector against González, which includes claims of sexual assault and coercion, implicating San Juan as an accomplice during the alleged intimidation of the whistleblower.
San Juan's new role raises significant concerns about accountability and the integrity of police leadership, given the serious nature of the allegations against both him and González. It has been reported that San Juan instructed the agent who made the allegations to “choose a destination and send it to him via WhatsApp,” suggesting attempts to exert influence and limit her reporting options. These developments spotlight the need for thorough investigations and reforms within police departments to prioritize the safety and well-being of individuals coming forward with reports of misconduct.
The reassignment has sparked public outrage and calls for justice within the law enforcement community, as many see this as a failure to appropriately respond to accusations of such grave nature. Activists and critics argue that putting individuals with such serious allegations into positions of power undermines efforts to combat sexual violence and protect victims within the very institutions meant to uphold law and order. This case reflects ongoing issues within law enforcement agencies regarding the treatment of victims and the protection of those who expose misconduct, which continues to call for urgent reform and accountability.
