Is it a crime to disrespect police officers?

Since Organic Law 1/2015 came into force, disrespecting law enforcement officers, such as members of the police force, is considered atypical conduct (it does not constitute a crime). However, it may constitute an administrative offense, punishable by a fine.

Offences Against Public Order

Lack of respect and due consideration

The crime of disrespect and disrespect for authority is regulated in Article 556.2 of the Penal Code, within Title XXII, which regulates crimes against public order, which protect the proper functioning of public services and functions, whose ultimate purpose is to guarantee social coexistence.

The crime of article 556.2 of the Penal Code punishes people who lack respect and consideration due to the authority .

This crime has been used, among other cases, to address alleged insults directed at mayors, minor scuffles with members of Parliament, and so on.

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The crime of article 556.2 of the Penal Code punishes people who lack respect and consideration due to the authority .

This crime has been used, among other cases, to address alleged insults directed at mayors, minor scuffles with members of Parliament, and so on.

Passive Subject

Only those in authority can be victims of this crime, meaning those who, either alone or as members of a corporation or collegiate body, have authority or exercise their own jurisdiction. These include members of the Congress of Deputies, the Senate, the European Parliament, and officials of the Public Prosecutor’s Office.

In any case, these subjects must be, at the time of the events, exercising their functions , that is, carrying out the duties inherent to their position.

Penalties for the crime of lack of respect and due consideration to authority

The penalty for the crime of disrespect and disrespect for authority is a fine of one to three months . This is a minor offense.

Specialist in Criminal Law

Joaquín Sugrañes is a lawyer specializing in criminal law, and his goal is to guarantee excellent criminal defense for all his clients.

If you are facing a problem related to any of the situations described, please call us and discuss your case with us.

Is it a crime to disrespect police officers?

Since Organic Law 1/2015 came into force, disrespecting law enforcement officers, such as members of the police force, is considered atypical conduct (it does not constitute a crime). However, it may constitute an administrative offense, punishable by a fine.