Evolution of Spanish Policing: From Joseph Bonaparte to Ferdinand VII

The Police Model of Joseph Bonaparte

This model established the first Ministry of General Police, tasked with maintaining state security. It introduced Police Regulations governing the entry and movement of people in Madrid and created the General Police Inspectorate of Madrid to implement departmental directives.

• Urban Militias: Established to maintain public peace.
• Civic Militia: Created to protect persons, property, and ensure public order.

The 1812 Constitution and the National Militia

The National Militia consisted of non-professional staff, considered military personnel only while on duty, and operated under municipal authority. The 1812 Constitution mandated its installation in specific cities. Key characteristics included:

• Separation from the regular army.
• Primary functions: Providing security, order, and peace within the country.
• Context: The Constitution was promulgated without a formal declaration of rights and favored military preponderance.

The Superintendency of Police (1824)

Ferdinand VII sought to strengthen the Civil Administration of Public Order by creating the Superintendency as an apex body. However, the system faced significant challenges:

• Institutional Conflict: Soldiers and bishops reported to the King, claiming their powers were threatened.
• Administrative Failure: An attempt to create a home office for administrative separation from the military and judiciary failed.
• Dissolution: Due to intense opposition from the Church and military judges, the King was forced to abolish the body almost entirely by 1827.

General Police Characteristics Under Ferdinand VII

The 1824 model represented the first true attempt at a centralized policing system:

• Political Nature: Officers and chiefs held political positions, effectively creating a political police force.
• National Scope: It extended police powers throughout the state with a national organizational structure.
• Effectiveness: Despite its political nature, the force was highly effective in gathering information, allowing the government to proactively counteract emerging threats.