A Heart-Wrenching Incident in Benalmádena

In the picturesque seaside town of Benalmádena, tragedy struck when Lina sought help from the police in January, fearing for her life. Her ex-partner had become increasingly violent, even threatening her as he raised his hand in aggression. Despite having a history of domestic violence, Lina was categorized by a police algorithm as 'medium' risk.

Algorithmic Assessments: A Life on the Line

The police used VioGén, a digital tool designed to evaluate the threat of domestic violence. It processes 35 questions about previous abuse, access to weapons, mental health of the abuser, and the victim's situation. Unfortunately, this algorithm failed to anticipate the danger Lina faced, leading to a devastating outcome.

The Aftermath: Betrayal of Trust

When Lina requested a restraining order in a specialized court, her plea was denied—a decision possibly influenced by her 'medium' risk assessment. Just three weeks later, she was killed by her ex-partner, who allegedly used a key to enter her home, leaving it ablaze. Remarkably, her children and mother escaped, but Lina did not.

Questions Arise: Is the Algorithm Faulty?

Lina’s gut-wrenching story has ignited debates across Spain about the efficacy of VioGén. Critics argue that reducing complex human situations to algorithmic assessments is dangerously simplistic. If Lina had been labeled as 'high' risk, a police follow-up would have occurred within a week—could that have changed her fate?

The Weight of an Algorithm: A Double-Edged Sword?

The algorithm is used widely in Spain, but its implementation has raised alarming concerns. Experts argue that the system may lead officers to make decisions without proper human oversight. While the head of Malaga's family and women’s unit asserts that VioGén is crucial for tracking cases, Lina’s tragedy reveals it can fail.

Lina's Legacy: Community Action Against Violence

In the wake of her untimely death, her home has transformed into a makeshift memorial, with flowers and candles honoring her memory. The community has rallied together, fundraising for her children, who now face an uncertain future without their mother. This incident serves as a somber reminder of the pervasive issue of gender-based violence and the potentially fatal flaws in systems meant to protect victims.

Conclusion: Demand for Change

Lina’s story is a heartbreaking example of how technology, when misapplied, can have devastating consequences. As discussions about domestic violence protocols continue, activists argue for the need for human oversight in decision-making processes. The call for reform resonates louder than ever: never again should a life be lost due to an algorithmic miscalculation.