The Supreme Court of Spain’s decision in the disciplinary case involving a member of the Guardia Civil has set a significant precedent for the country’s entire security system. This is not merely about one individual’s personal responsibility—it’s about the trust placed in institutions charged with upholding order at the highest levels of power. Such incidents can impact public perception of law enforcement and spark debate about professional standards within the service.
The Military Judicial Panel reviewed the circumstances under which a Guardia Civil officer, while on duty at the government residence gym, committed a serious violation. In April 2022, he began his shift after consuming alcohol and then allowed colleagues to bring a bottle of strong liquor into the workplace. Instead of stopping the breach, he joined them in drinking right at his post.
Breach of discipline
The situation escalated several hours later when members of other units, including the Prime Minister’s chief of security, entered the hall. The guard, who was severely intoxicated, acted in a manner deemed offensive and unacceptable: he exposed himself publicly and began to behave provocatively. This episode was documented in the disciplinary investigation materials and served as grounds for strict sanctions.
During the proceedings, it was revealed that the employee’s behavior was not only a violation of official instructions but also demonstrated flagrant disregard for established norms. Witnesses noted clear signs of alcohol intoxication: slurred speech, smell of alcohol, erratic behavior. All this was confirmed by colleagues’ testimony, who also acknowledged drinking alcohol together at the workplace.
Court decision
The Supreme Court, having reviewed all the defense’s arguments, found no grounds to overturn the disciplinary sanction. The judges emphasized that the evidence of the violation was comprehensive, and the fact of misconduct was indisputable. The ruling stated that the guard’s actions contravened not only internal regulations, but also basic principles of professional ethics.
The sanction approved by the court includes temporary suspension from duty and loss of part of the salary. In making its decision, the court took into account that the employee was on active duty and was expected to maintain order, not disrupt it. The court also stressed the inadmissibility of such behavior among law enforcement personnel, especially in places responsible for the security of top state officials.
Consequences for the system
This case has sparked widespread discussion within the professional community and prompted debate over standards of conduct among security staff at government institutions. Issues of discipline and personal responsibility have become especially relevant amid growing demands for transparency and accountability from law enforcement agencies. The court’s ruling may set a precedent for similar cases in the future.
In recent years, Spain has already seen cases where members of the security forces have been held accountable for violations of official discipline. Such incidents typically attract public attention and lead to tighter oversight of employee behavior. As a result, not only attitudes toward individual cases change, but also the approach to shaping corporate culture within these agencies.
Recalling recent disciplinary cases, it’s worth noting that in 2024, a police officer in one of the provinces was dismissed for a similar offense involving alcohol consumption while on duty. At that time, the court’s decision also supported strict measures, emphasizing the importance of maintaining public trust in law enforcement. Stories like these send a clear message to leadership about the need for constant oversight and prevention of such situations.
