The proposal provides for Tasers, technically known as Electronic Control Devices (ECDs), to become part of the equipment issued to all local police officers performing operational duties. Their use will be subject to control measures, as each device will have to record usage data and be accompanied by a synchronized body-worn camera, in accordance with video surveillance regulations.
The plan also includes extendable batons for the entire operational force, although officers will first have to complete a training course before using them. The regulation amendment will be debated this Thursday at 1:30 p.m. and, although it still requires approval from the full council, the PP alone has enough votes to pass it. In the 2023 municipal elections, it won 10 councillors, compared with four for the PSOE, two for Entre Todos Bajo Cinca and one representative from Vox.
PLAINCLOTHES PATROLS TO TACKLE ANTISOCIAL BEHAVIOR IN FRAGA
At the same time, the City Council is finalizing the deployment of plainclothes patrols over the coming weeks. Mayor Ignacio Gramún and Local Police Chief David Buil held a meeting on Monday to prepare the new operation, whose main objective will be to detect violations of the Municipal Ordinance on Public Safety and Civic Coexistence.
So far this year, Fraga Local Police have processed more than 130 complaints for violations of the ordinance, which provides for fines ranging from 100 to 3,000 euros depending on their severity. Gramún explained that the plainclothes patrols will allow officers to act less visibly in response to certain behaviors. "We want Fraga to be safe and orderly, and for everyone's space to be respected," the mayor said, adding that police presence must be adapted to the municipality's needs.
Regarding the Tasers, the mayor defended their introduction, saying they would allow for a more gradual response to risky situations. "I hope all political groups are aligned, move forward together and agree on this matter," he said. The extraordinary plenary session will also address an 80,000-euro budget amendment and a proposal to set Fraga's local holidays for 2027 on October 11 and 13.
