NCJ Number
109351
Journal
Police Journal Volume: 61 Issue: 1 Dated: (January-March 1988) Pages: 53-62
Date Published
1988
Length
10 pages
Annotation
During the democratization of Spain since the death of General Franco in 1975, one of the most difficult tasks facing the king and parliament has been the adaptation of the Spanish police forces to the democratic conditions.
Abstract
Before the attempted coup d'etat in 1981 the various Spanish police forces remained similar to the way they were in the Franco era. They were paramilitary organizations led by military rather than civilian officers. They used torture in interrogating suspects. The behavior during the coup of many police officers who were members of the Guardia Civil that had existed during the Franco era led to the awareness of the need for police reforms. Superficial changes had not been effective. Since 1984 gradual moves toward the demilitarization of the police force have taken place, however. The training of the Guardia Civil has changed, and acceptance of constitutional power is evident. However, attitudes have not completely changed, and professional codes, professional associations, and the full integration of the Policia Nacional and the Guardia Civil are still needed. Photographs.