In Spain, the law recognizes that domestic abuse is not always a one-time event or a single perpetrator. It’s often a pattern — a web of control, intimidation, and psychological torment that can persist long after the victim escapes the initial abuser.

What happens when someone under a restraining order continues their campaign of harassment — not directly, but through family members, friends, or enablers?

This is known as “acoso por terceros” — harassment by third parties. Spanish courts do recognize this form of abuse, and it can be pursued legally.

🛡️ What the Law Says:

• Under Spain’s Organic Law 1/2004 on Integrated Protection Measures Against Gender Violence, any form of continued harassment, intimidation, or coercion—especially when aimed at a victim of domestic abuse—is considered a criminal offense.
• If a restraining order (orden de alejamiento) is in place, any attempt by the abuser to indirectly contact or threaten the victim (for example, through a relative or associate) can be considered a violation of the order.
• Involving another person to carry out threats, intimidation, or harassment can increase the severity of the legal consequences. It shows premeditation and an intent to bypass legal boundaries.
• If the victim is already suffering from PTSD, suicidal ideation, or psychological distress, this can be used in court to strengthen charges, as Spanish law acknowledges the emotional and mental impact of ongoing abuse.
• In serious cases, the court may classify this behavior as “psychological violence”, and the perpetrators — even if they are family members — may be subject to criminal charges for complicity, coercion, or breach of restraining orders.

💔 The Emotional Reality:

What’s often even more disturbing is how families sometimes collude with the abuser, silencing or isolating the victim further. This collective gaslighting — denying the abuse, blaming the victim, or pretending it’s all in their head — can be just as damaging as the original violence.

For a person already living with PTSD or suicidal thoughts, this kind of harassment can push them to the edge. It’s a cruel and cowardly form of abuse that hides behind family loyalty while continuing to destroy the victim’s sense of safety and self-worth.

🚨 What Can Be Done:

• Keep a detailed record: Save emails, messages, voice notes, and any other communications that show continued harassment.
• Report everything to the Guardia Civil or local police. If the abuser is under a restraining order, even indirect contact should be flagged.
• Seek additional protection: If the abuse is continuing via other individuals, you can request that they also be included in restraining or protection orders.
• Work with a legal team or victim support service such as VICTIMAS 016 or Instituto de la Mujer. They can guide you through the steps to take and ensure you’re not facing this alone.

🕊️ Remember:

No one deserves to live in fear — especially after escaping abuse. If you’re being harassed by people connected to your abuser, it’s not your fault. You are not overreacting. You are not being dramatic. You are trying to survive, and under Spanish law, you have the right to protection, dignity, and peace.

You are not alone. And you do not have to stay silent.

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📞 Support Contacts in Spain:

• 016 — Free, confidential help line for domestic abuse victims (doesn’t appear on phone bills)
• Guardia Civil / Policía Nacional — Emergency: 112
• Local women’s shelters and legal aid offices in each autonomous region

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