NCJ Number
140316
Journal
International Journal of Comparative and Applied Criminal Justice Volume: 16 Issue: 1 Dated: (Spring 1992) Pages: 67-78
Date Published
1992
Length
12 pages
Annotation
Changes in the Spanish correctional system in the post- Franco era are explored; the discussion is based on findings from field visits to two Spanish prisons in 1987 and 1989 as well as data on historical changes and the current inmate population. The primary focus in on the impact, if any, effected by the movement from a dictatorship to a constitutional monarchy on the principles underlying punishment and the administrative structure of the prison system.
Abstract
The historical overview of the Franco era points out that, while some visitors in the 1950's were impressed by the Spanish correctional philosophy of reducing prison sentences through work, in general prison conditions were deplorable. Through the efforts of groups such as Amnesty International, the Franco government did allow inmates some additional privileges, but the country was increasingly being singled out for its repressive criminal justice system. Today, there are two types of prisons in Spain, much like the system under Franco; these include provincial prisons to provide custody for offenders awaiting trial or serving short-term sentences, and central prisons for inmates serving longer terms. Despite a spate of early releases and pardons at the beginning of the reign of King Juan Carlos, today there are far more prisoners per capita than under Franco. This increase in the prison population is largely due to the rise in terrorism in Spain and higher rates of property crime. 2 tables, 2 notes, and 9 references