An exclusive unit for monitoring and assisting victims of gender-based violence has been unveiled by the Local Police of San Cristóbal de La Laguna, in collaboration with the National Police, as announced on Wednesday, July 3.
Present at the event were La Laguna’s Mayor, Luis Yeray Gutiérrez; the City Council’s Councillor for Citizen Safety, Cristina Ledesma; the First Deputy Mayor, Badel Albelo; and the Councillor for Social Welfare and Quality of Life, María Cruz. Inspector Javier Fleitas from the Local Police, who will lead this specialised team, also participated. This unit is part of the Comprehensive Monitoring System for Cases of Gender-based Violence (VioGén).
Mayor Luis Yeray Gutiérrez stated, “This dedicated unit will serve as a vital resource for individuals and families affected by such violence, ensuring thorough case follow-up and compliance with any legal measures in place.”
Furthermore, victims will have access to advisory and support services during legal processes, upon request. The unit will initially consist of six officers and an inspector.
Councillor Cristina Ledesma pointed out that both the Local Police of La Laguna and the National Police will handle cases based on risk levels, with the possibility of seeking additional support when needed.
The establishment of this unit aligns with the protocol for cooperation between State security forces, local police, and civil bodies for safeguarding victims of domestic and gender-based violence. A Police Coordination Board, comprising representatives from these security forces, has also been formed. It will convene regularly to ensure the protocol’s effective implementation, monitor gender-based violence cases in the municipality, and address other pertinent matters concerning the unit.
