Former Spanish Police Chief Faces Court Over Sexual Assault Allegations

Madrid – The former Deputy Director of Operations (DAO) of the National Police, José Ángel González, appeared in court on Tuesday, March 17, 2026, to address allegations of sexual assault made by a subordinate officer. The case has triggered political turmoil and sparked a debate about power dynamics within the Spanish police force.

The Allegations and Resignation

The accusations center around an alleged incident that occurred on April 23, 2025, at a Ministry of the Interior residence. The complainant, a police inspector, alleges that González used his authority to initiate a physical approach of a sexual nature, which she repeatedly rejected. Sources close to the complainant state she attended the court appearance “distraught.”

González resigned from his position on February 17, 2026, following the public disclosure of the complaint. He had held the post of DAO since October 2018. The resignation came amid growing pressure and a political crisis for the government of Pedro Sánchez.

Court Testimony and Conflicting Accounts

Both González and the complainant testified before the Court of Violence against Women Number 8 in Madrid on Tuesday. They entered the building through separate doors to avoid direct contact. González, upon leaving the court, asserted that the inspector had “destroyed his personal, family and professional life” and maintained his innocence. He claimed the audio recording of their conversation would “clarify” the situation, suggesting it demonstrates a case of jealousy rather than assault. González stated he was able to prove his innocence.

However, the complainant’s lawyer, Jorge Piedrafita, refuted González’s claims, describing them as “disconnected” and false. Piedrafita stated that González acknowledged the validity of the audio recording and his voice within it, which he called “chilling and enlightening.” Piedrafita also accused González of attempting to portray the complainant as acting out of jealousy or setting a trap.

Investigation and Precautionary Measures

The judge rejected a request for precautionary measures, such as a restraining order or a ban on communication, citing that González had not approached or contacted the complainant since July 2025. However, the complainant’s defense plans to appeal this decision, arguing that a risk still exists. The Prosecutor’s Office did not request a restraining order, noting the absence of subordination or rapprochement.

The complaint alleges a pattern of coercive behavior and abuse of authority, highlighting an “emotional relationship” characterized by an “asymmetry of institutional power.” It further claims that González engaged in “obsessive stalking behavior and unwanted contact” after the complainant ended the relationship. The complainant also alleges psychological injuries and misappropriation of public funds.

Political Fallout and Identity Concerns

The case has created political challenges for the Sánchez government, with the Interior Minister offering to resign if the victim felt she had been failed. The complainant’s identity was revealed and shared on social media, causing her significant distress, according to her lawyer.

Ongoing Investigation

The investigation is ongoing, and the judge is expected to consider the evidence presented by both sides before making a determination. The complainant’s lawyer has also requested a separate investigation into the alleged leak of a defense brief that revealed her identity.