1. How the VioGén scoring system works in English

Spain’s official VioGén system — English explanation describes a police risk-assessment process, not a simple public checklist. VioGen +1 The process is broadly: Information is gathered: the police interview the victim and consider available evidence, previous incidents, witness accounts and relevant records. Risk factors are entered: the officer completes the relevant police risk-assessment questionnaire. The system calculates a proposed risk level: its statistical model assesses the combined information. The officer reviews the result: the responsible officer can raise the proposed level when circumstances warrant greater protection. Protection and monitoring are arranged: the risk level informs the response, and reassessment can take place as new information emerges. VioGén+1 2. What is the actual score? The system uses weighted risk indicators and a statistical model, but the official public information does not provide a complete, current scoring table showing every question, its numerical points and the cut-off scores for each risk category. I therefore cannot reliably give you an official points calculator or say, for example, that a certain number of points automatically means Alto or Extremo. VioGén Research on earlier versions of VioGén describes the underlying principle: risk indicators receive different weights, the model combines them, and thresholds map the resulting score to a risk level. Those historical details should not be assumed to be the exact scoring rules in the current VioGén 2 system. journals.copmadrid.org 3. The four current risk levels Spanish English What it means in general Bajo Low Lower assessed risk, but not zero risk Medio Medium Significant risk requiring appropriate protective measures Alto High Elevated risk requiring strengthened protection Extremo Extreme Highest standard VioGén risk category, requiring the strongest applicable protective response VioGén 2 introduced these four levels in the 2025 protocol, removing the previous No Apreciado category. Ministry of the Interior

“Just in Case” – Or Just Another Way to Gain Control?

Many abusive relationships begin with requests that sound caring or practical. “Give me your password… just in case.” “Let me have access to your bank account… just in case.” “I need your phone PIN… just in case.” “I should know everything… just in case.” At first, it can sound reasonable. You may even believe it… Read More “Just in Case” – Or Just Another Way to Gain Control?

Coercive and Controlling Behaviours: How Abusers Restrict Freedom

Abuse can manifest beyond physical violence, encompassing control over a person’s freedom, finances, communication, and access to information. Warning signs include restricting movement, financial manipulation, and digital control. Healthy relationships are rooted in trust and equality; recognizing patterns of coercive behavior is vital for seeking help and support.… Read More Coercive and Controlling Behaviours: How Abusers Restrict Freedom

Structured risk assessment tools (VPR / VPER)

Here’s how police in Spain typically assess ongoing risk after long-term domestic violence or harassment cases(including cases that have been through restraining orders and may be in or out of VioGén monitoring). 🟡 1. Risk is not based on time — it’s based on behaviour patterns Police and risk assessors do not use a “time passed =… Read More Structured risk assessment tools (VPR / VPER)

Your Lawyer Doesn’t Have to Believe You

One of life’s great misunderstandings is the idea that a lawyer only represents innocent people. Imagine the interview. Client: “I’m completely blameless.” Lawyer: “Of course you are.” What the lawyer is actually thinking is probably closer to: “Where are the documents?” Lawyers are not hired to become members of your fan club. They are hired to explain… Read More Your Lawyer Doesn’t Have to Believe You

When Actions and Evidence Don’t Match the Story

For a long time, I questioned my own judgement because I was repeatedly presented with stories, explanations and accusations that simply did not make sense. Over time, however, documents, reports, emails, recordings and independent evidence began to paint a very different picture. Two years later, many of the claims that caused so much confusion can… Read More When Actions and Evidence Don’t Match the Story

Privacy and the law during forensic investigations

Privacy and the law during forensic investigations try to balance two competing things: public safety and individual rights. Key legal/privacy principles usually include: 1. Lawful authority (warrants / court orders) Police generally need legal authority to search devices like phones or computers: a search warrant a court order or, in some cases, consent The warrant should define: what can be… Read More Privacy and the law during forensic investigations

Forensic Investigations

When police seize hard drives, phones, and other digital devices in a criminal investigation, they typically follow a digital forensics process designed to preserve evidence and make it admissible in court. Typical steps include: 1. Seizure and chain of custody The first priority is preserving evidence: devices are bagged/labeled every person handling them is logged this “chain… Read More Forensic Investigations