Repeat offenders are a significant problem in Vitoria-Gasteiz, contributing to a rise in crime, according to the Head of Citizen Security. César Fernández de Landa has indicated that petty thefts and violent robberies have seen a notable increase, despite the city previously being "the envy of Euskadi" in terms of crime rates.
Mobile phone thefts remain the most common, often occurring due to victim distraction. However, violent robberies are described as "two crimes in one" because they can cause severe harm to elderly individuals and heighten the sense of insecurity. The official acknowledged that these crimes "ostensibly increased last year" and are a cause for concern.
Fernández de Landa clarified that both the Local Police and the Ertzaintza have a "fairly high resolution rate" for violent robbery cases. The primary reason is that "thieves repeat their crimes." He explained, "Normally, they are the same offenders," citing a striking case where one individual was arrested "7 times in 10 days." He added that the perpetrators are "petty criminals: male, young, and with a very specific profile," and are "well-known to the police."
The Local Police and Ertzaintza face challenges with the courts. In many instances, offenders are released shortly after arrest, awaiting trials that are often significantly delayed. The official pointed to a "blockage in the courts," which directly impacts the rise in robberies.
Fernández de Landa clarified that legal "reincidence" requires a final conviction, but many "reiterate the crime over and over until conviction." He stated that the system "doesn't work," not only judicially but also potentially in "policing, social policies, immigration..." where failures may exist.
When questioned about squatting and its link to crime, the official admitted that "a portion of squatters do commit crimes" and are "among the known offenders," but stressed that "they are not necessarily criminals." He stated, "Fear is free," and accused "the media" and "certain political parties" of fueling it "in an electoralist manner." However, he did acknowledge that "violent robberies have attenuated" in recent months, particularly among the elderly.
