Local authorities back new bill against repeat offenders

Mayors from the Barcelona Metropolitan Arc advocate in Madrid for legal changes to allow city councils to act as private prosecutors.

A judge gavel on a wooden table in an institutional setting.
IA

A judge gavel on a wooden table in an institutional setting.

Mayors and representatives from the Barcelona Metropolitan Arc traveled to Madrid this February to support a legislative proposal aimed at tackling criminal recidivism effectively.

The proposed regulation suggests that repeated thefts should no longer be treated as isolated incidents, potentially leading to prison sentences of one to three years. It also envisions that local councils could notify the Prosecutor's Office and act as private prosecutors in court cases.

"We needed this modification of the penal code and the reinforcement of the courts to provide tools for the daily work of security forces."

Ramon Zaballa · Security Councilor of Vilafranca
Local leaders emphasized that while their cities remain generally safe, the persistent nature of minor crimes requires a more robust legal response to maintain public order and confidence.