The PSOE has formed an unusual alliance with right-wing parties like PP, Vox, and PNV to advance a reform hardening penalties for repeat theft offenses, in response to Junts' demands. This measure, approved in committee with broad support, aims to satisfy Carles Puigdemont and stabilize the legislature. Left-wing opposition criticizes the government's punitive shift.
In a surprising political move, the PSOE has joined forces with all right-wing groups in Congress, from PP to Vox and including PNV, to push a bill on multiple reoffending. This initiative, tabled by Junts in March 2024, toughens the Penal Code and Criminal Procedure Law against criminals who repeatedly commit thefts, addressing rising insecurity in cities like Barcelona.
Congress's Justice Committee approved the report on Wednesday with 31 votes in favor, five against, and one abstention, incorporating PP amendments that increase penalties. Key changes include one to three years in prison for thefts of mobile devices or electronics, and possible jail time if a repeat offender has prior convictions for three thefts totaling at least 400 euros in value. It also allows precautionary restraining orders during investigations to protect victims or prevent reoffending, applicable to neighborhoods, municipalities, or entire regions.
The law was among Junts' demands over the Spanish government's 'breaches,' prompting Carles Puigdemont to withdraw parliamentary support. Only facing legislative collapse did the PSOE unblock the bill, accepting four toughening amendments last week to secure the majority.
The maneuver strains ties with left-wing allies: Sumar accuses the PSOE of embracing the right's punitive framework, while Podemos calls it 'populism' aiding Vox on xenophobia issues. EH Bildu opposes it, and ERC, though critical, acknowledges public concern over these crimes. Mossos d'Esquadra data underscores the need: in Barcelona, 283 multiple reoffenders racked up 2,270 arrests for 5,602 offenses in 2022, with the top five arrested 117 times and holding 178 prior records combined.
The next step is the full Plenary vote, scheduled after Christmas, possibly in February.
