The Independent Association of Civil Guards (IGC) has released a press statement regarding the recent ruling issued by the Provincial Court of Las Palmas, Second Section, on 24th July 2025. The court confirmed the sentences handed down in the first instance by the Arrecife Criminal Court No. 1 on 4th December 2024.

The events date back to 22nd July 2017, when two uniformed Civil Guards were brutally assaulted in La Santa (Tinajo, Lanzarote) while attempting to restore public order during a disturbance. The officers sustained serious injuries: one suffered a nasal fracture and dental damage, while the other endured multiple contusions and subsequent psychological repercussions.

The ruling establishes that a large group attacked the Civil Guards, who were knocked down and violently assaulted. Although several defendants were acquitted due to insufficient evidence to prove their involvement, the court confirmed the convictions of five aggressors, affirming that their participation in the incident was established.

A Lengthy Process

“We celebrate the confirmation of the convictions against the main aggressors of our colleagues, but we cannot overlook that this process has dragged on for more than seven years. This delay has resulted in benefits for the convicted and additional suffering for the victims,” stated Daniel Fernández, Vice President and National Spokesperson for IGC. “Civil Guards should not be exposed to collective assaults only to see partial convictions. The lack of resources to identify all those responsible is a structural problem that demands an urgent solution,” he added following the announcement of the ruling.

“We demand that the State assumes subsidiary liability for compensation in cases of insolvency of the convicted individuals. The compensation for the injured officers should not depend on the financial ability of those who assaulted them,” Fernández asserted.

Confirmed Sentences

The five convicted individuals—D. B. G., K. E. D., J. B. T. R., G. E. H., and D. F. H.—have had their sentences confirmed for the crimes of assaulting law enforcement officers and causing injuries. The sentences include prison terms ranging from 5 to 6 months for the crime of assault (Article 550 of the Penal Code), along with special disqualification from passive suffrage for the duration of the sentence. They are also subjected to penalties for injuries based on their proven involvement in the incident. The ruling further upholds the compensation amounts established by the initial court for medical expenses, treatment, and permanent aesthetic damage. Additionally, it nullifies the cost condemnation imposed on the private prosecution, ensuring that the officers will not have to cover expenses related to the legal defence of the acquitted defendants.

IGC Calls for Recording Equipment to Prevent Impunity

Following the dissemination of this court ruling, IGC is calling upon the Ministry of the Interior and the General Directorate of the Civil Guard to establish a specific plan for preventing assaults, along with the provision of additional technological identification resources, such as body cameras and other recording systems, to eliminate impunity in collective attacks. The association is also requesting an increase in personnel assigned to the Canary Islands and sensitive areas, as well as a guarantee of a swift and effective judicial response from the Administration in cases of assaults and attacks against Civil Guards.

About IGC

Established in 2008, the Independent Association of Civil Guards (IGC) is a professional association aimed at defending the labour and social rights of Civil Guards from a position of independence and commitment to improving public service. Emerging as an alternative to traditional models, IGC promotes transparency, professional dignity, and equal pay. Currently, it represents thousands of officers across Spain and actively participates in the Civil Guard Council. Its focus is on achieving fair working conditions and real parity with other police forces.