Two PSOE workers appeal Pedraz's decision not to annul the seizure of their mobile phones in the Leire case
Two workers from the Spanish Socialist Workers' Party (PSOE), who are implicated in the National Court case known as 'Leire,' have appealed the decision by Judge Santiago Pedraz to annul a key measure from May: the seizure of their mobile phones by the Guardia Civil. Their defense claims this action violated up to four fundamental rights, was conducted without legal representation, and lacked judicial mandate. The women are accused in the branch of the investigation examining whether the party covered expenses and travel costs for Leire Díez while allegedly undermining judicial cases affecting the PSOE or the government. The defense argues that the judicial order included the seizure of electronic devices at the PSOE headquarters but that agents from the UCO arrived at their home with an order for non-detained suspects and seized their devices, work materials, and required them to specify PINs and email accounts. They claim the UCO acted without judicial authorization, bypassing the necessary conditions of urgency and flagrancy for such an invasive measure against the right to privacy. The defense further criticizes the UCO’s actions as part of a prolonged effort to gather highly敏感
How each side covered it
The same event, grouped by the political lean of the outlets covering it.
progressive
center
conservative
★
How each side covered it
Support independent, bias-aware news and unlock the social pulse, community voting, and your personalized For You feed.
The article discusses the legal proceedings against Mercedes González, Director General of the Guardia Civil, and Manuel Llamas, her deputy operational director, who have been indicted for abuse of disciplinary power and obstruction of justice. The charges stem from allegations that they used confidential information disclosures against members of the Unidad Central Operativa (UCO), a specialized unit within the Guardia Civil focused on corruption investigations. These actions are suspected to have created an intimidating effect aimed at discouraging further investigative work into corruption cases involving the Spanish Socialist Workers' Party (PSOE) and the family of President Pedro Sánchez. The case involves a broader investigation into plans by former PSOE member Leire Díez to pressure the UCO through internal investigations, allegedly orchestrated under the guidance of Santos Cerdán, a former PSOE secretary. The court is examining whether these actions were intended to intimidate institutional actors and hinder their ability to conduct police judicial functions.
Bias read (Progressive): The article frames the actions of the Guardia Civil leadership as part of a broader pattern of institutional intimidation aimed at suppressing corruption investigations, particularly those targeting the PSOE and its associates. This framing aligns with a left-leaning perspective that emphasizes the矛
Why these scores (Factual 95 · Objective 90): This article accurately summarizes the imputation decision by Judge Pedraz, citing legal grounds and supporting evidence. It remains neutral and factual, providing a clear summary without added interpretation.
ABC (España)IndependentCenterFactual 95Objective 9012 days ago
On July 2, 2026, Spanish judicial sources confirmed that Judge Santiago Pedraz is set to charge Mercedes González, Director General of the Civil Guard, and Manuel Llamas, Deputy Chief Operational Officer of the armed forces, in connection with the 'Leire' case. The charges relate to alleged involvement in corruption investigations targeting the Socialist Workers' Party (PSOE). Both the Anti-Corruption Prosecutor’s Office and the People’s Party (PP) submitted requests to the judge for the inclusion of these two officials as suspects. The case centers around allegations of hidden networks within the PSOE.
Bias read (Center): The article presents information about legal actions against high-ranking officials, citing both the Anti-Corruption Prosecutor’s Office and the People’s Party as requesting the charges. It does not take a clear ideological stance but reports on the procedural steps taken by judicial authorities. No
Why these scores (Factual 95 · Objective 90): This article provides a clear and accurate account of the imputation of Mercedes González and Manuel Llamas based on legal sources. It remains objective, presenting facts without bias or emotional language.
20minutosIndependentCenterFactual 95Objective 9012 days ago
A judge has formally charged the director and the DAO (Directorate of Operations) of the Spanish National Police Corps (Guardia Civil) in connection with the case involving Leire Díez. This legal action follows an investigation into potential misconduct or negligence related to the incident. The charges indicate that the judicial authority is holding these officials accountable for their role in the matter. The case has drawn attention due to the involvement of law enforcement personnel and raises questions about internal procedures within the Guardia Civil.
Bias read (Center): The article reports on a formal legal decision by a judge without apparent ideological framing. It does not exhibit biased language, one-sided sourcing, or omission of context. The focus is on the legal process rather than political commentary.
Why these scores (Factual 95 · Objective 90): Accurate summary of the primary source, mentioning the imputation of the director and DAO by the judge. Slightly less detailed than the source but still factually sound.
RTVE NoticiasState / PublicProgressiveFactual 95Objective 9012 days ago
In the case known as 'Leire,' Spanish politician José Luis Pedraz has formally accused the director of the Guardia Civil and the Director of Operations (DAO) of misconduct, including obstruction of justice and abuse of power. The accusations stem from alleged failures in handling an investigation related to the disappearance of a minor, which has drawn significant public attention. These charges could lead to legal proceedings against high-ranking members of Spain’s national police force. The case has been widely covered by Spanish media due to its sensitivity and potential implications for law enforcement accountability.
Bias read (Progressive): The framing emphasizes legal accountability of powerful institutions and figures, aligning with progressive narratives that highlight institutional corruption and the need for reform. The focus on charging high-level officials suggests a critical stance toward traditional authority structures.
Why these scores (Factual 95 · Objective 90): Correctly reports the imputation of the director and DAO for prevarication and obstruction of justice. Matches the primary source closely.
RTVE NoticiasState / PublicCenterFactual 90Objective 8512 days ago
The Spanish government has expressed 'maximum calm' regarding the indictment of the director of the Civil Guard, indicating a lack of immediate concern or reaction to the legal action against her. The statement suggests that authorities do not view the situation as a significant issue requiring urgent attention. The indictment likely relates to allegations of misconduct or corruption, though specific details are not provided. This response reflects a measured stance by the administration, focusing on maintaining stability rather than addressing potential controversies directly.
Bias read (Center): The article presents the government's official stance without overtly favoring any particular political perspective. It reports the government's response to the indictment without adding commentary or emphasizing ideological positions. The framing remains neutral, focusing on the factual statement '
Why these scores (Factual 90 · Objective 85): The article accurately reports the government's response to the imputation of the Guardia Civil director, maintaining neutrality and objectivity. It reflects official statements without adding speculative or emotive content.
elDiario.esIndependentCenterFactual 90Objective 8512 days ago
The Spanish anti-corruption prosecutor’s office has submitted a report to Judge Santiago Pedraz requesting the investigation of Mercedes González, the head of Spain’s Civil Guard, and her deputy operational director, Manuel Llamas, in the case involving Leire Díez. This request comes nearly simultaneously with a similar petition from the Popular Party (PP)’s prosecution team. Judge Pedraz has approved the request and set July 16th as the date for both individuals' interrogations. The report was prepared by fiscal Elena Lorente, who is investigating a potential conspiracy led by Santos Cerdán and former PSOE member Leire Díez, aimed at obstructing judicial procedures affecting the PSOE or the government’s president’s circle.
Bias read (Center): The article presents factual developments regarding legal proceedings against high-ranking officials, without overtly favoring any political side. It reports on the actions of multiple parties including the PP and the PSOE, maintaining a balanced tone by focusing on procedural updates rather than op
Why these scores (Factual 90 · Objective 85): The article accurately summarizes the Fiscalía Anticorrupción's request for imputations and aligns closely with the primary source. It maintains a balanced and objective tone throughout.
elDiario.esIndependentConservativeFactual 90Objective 8513 days ago
The Popular Party (PP) has requested that Judge Pedro Pedraz include the Director General of the Civil Guard, Mercedes González, and her Deputy Operational Director (DAO), Manuel Llamas, as suspects in the case involving Leire Díez. The PP alleges that there was a presumed plot aimed at destabilizing and obstructing ongoing judicial and police investigations targeting the PSOE and members of the government. This alleged conspiracy, supposedly supervised by Santos Cerdán and coordinated by Leire Díez, sought to undermine the Central Operations Unit (UCO) of the Civil Guard, particularly focusing on Lieutenant Colonel Antonio Balas. The PP supports its claims with reports from the UCO, stating that there was a personal and repeated relationship between González and Díez, which continued after González took office on September 17, 2024. They highlight at least three face-to-face meetings and numerous instant messaging contacts, suggesting that Díez used this relationship to push administrative actions within the Civil Guard against the UCO.
Bias read (Conservative): The article frames the allegations against the Civil Guard leadership as part of a broader political conspiracy orchestrated by left-wing figures. It emphasizes the involvement of high-ranking officials and uses terms like 'trama' (conspiracy) and 'desestabilizar' (destabilize) to suggest a systemic
Why these scores (Factual 90 · Objective 85): The article accurately reports the PP's request for the imputation of the Guardia Civil director and DAO based on UCO reports. It aligns closely with the primary source and presents the facts neutrally without clear bias.
El PaísIndependent🔒CenterFactual 90Objective 759 days ago
Forty days ago, agents from the Central Operational Unit (UCO) entered the Directorate General of the Guardia Civil at the order of Judge Santiago Pedraz to search for several documents. They were looking for a detailed list of individuals who had accessed the premises of the armed force, suspecting that former socialist activist Leire Díez—who is now accused of plumbing work for the PSOE and investigated for trying to sabotage judicial cases—had met with the director of the Institute, Mercedes González. The agents also searched for administrative files related to members of the UCO between January 1, 2024, and May 27, 2025. They found three confidential internal investigations that could lead to disciplinary proceedings. According to the report, they did not find any entry by Díez into the main headquarters of the body. However, Mercedes González admitted she had had two coffees (or teas, in her case) with Leire Díez between September 2024 and April 2025, despite the Minister of the Interior, Fernando Grande-Marlaska, initially denying any meetings between them.
Bias read (Center): The article presents the facts neutrally, focusing on the actions taken by the UCO and the responses from involved parties without overtly favoring any side. It includes both the accusations against Leire Díez and the admissions made by Mercedes González, providing a balanced account of the events.
Why these scores (Factual 90 · Objective 75): The article reconstructs events accurately based on the primary source and maintains a balanced narrative despite focusing on specific details.
elDiario.esIndependentProgressiveFactual 90Objective 7012 days ago
The article discusses the legal implications of the indictment of Mercedes González, the Director General of the Guardia Civil, in the case involving Leire Díez. Following her recent testimony before the Senate supported by Interior Minister Fernando Grande-Marlaska, the Anti-Corruption Prosecutor’s Office has requested her indictment, citing possible involvement or collaboration with a corruption network led by former Socialist Party leader Santos Cerdán and Leire Díez. The judicial report by prosecutors Elisa Lamelas and Mar Scharfhausen challenges the government's claim that the conspiracy targeted investigations against both the PSOE and President Pedro Sánchez. It highlights González's alleged close ties to Díez and the suspicious actions of Deputy Director Manuel Llamas, including withholding information and initiating internal investigations within the Guardia Civil. This marks the first high-ranking government official indicted in this case, breaking a symbolic barrier previously confined to the PSOE. Prosecutors now suspect the network may have infiltrated significant public institutions like the Guardia Civil.
Bias read (Progressive): The article frames the indictment of a senior government official as part of a broader investigation into potential corruption networks, emphasizing the involvement of high-profile figures and suggesting systemic influence. While it presents factual developments, the emphasis on institutional compk,
Why these scores (Factual 90 · Objective 70): The article provides detailed information matching the primary source and maintains a relatively balanced tone while discussing the implications for the government.
El PaísIndependent🔒CenterFactual 85Objective 8512 days ago
The Spanish judge Santiago Pedraz has decided to charge Mercedes González, the head of the Civil Guard, and Manuel Llamas, the current deputy director operational (DAO), in the 'Leire' case. This decision followed a request from the Anti-Corruption Prosecutor's Office. The judge is investigating a potential network aimed at undermining judicial cases, including those involving the brother of Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez and the 'Koldo' case. Both individuals are scheduled to appear before a court on July 16 for charges of abuse of authority and obstruction of justice.
Bias read (Center): The article presents the legal proceedings against high-ranking officials in the Civil Guard without overtly favoring any political side. It reports on the charges and the context of the investigation without apparent ideological slant, maintaining a balanced tone.
Why these scores (Factual 85 · Objective 85): The article accurately reports the imputations of González and Llamas by Judge Pedraz following the Fiscalía Anticorrupción's request. It presents the facts neutrally and concisely.
El MundoIndependent🔒ConservativeFactual 85Objective 8012 days ago
The article discusses the internal turmoil within Spain's National Police Corps (Guardia Civil) following the legal proceedings against its director, Mercedes González, and the Director Adjunto Operativo (DAO), Manuel Llamas. Both figures face charges related to alleged corruption involving the Spanish Socialist Workers' Party (PSOE). High-ranking officers within the Guardia Civil express frustration and concern over the situation, stating that the actions of González and Llamas have caused 'irreparable damage' to the institution. Despite these allegations, the Minister of the Interior, Fernando Grande-Marlaska, has consistently supported both individuals, even during critical moments such as when Llamas was accused of pressuring the UCO unit for information affecting Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez. The article highlights the contrast between the legal scrutiny faced by González, who holds a political position, and Llamas, who is seen as more aligned with the military structure of the Guardia Civil.
Bias read (Conservative): The article frames the situation as a scandal involving high-ranking officials in the Guardia Civil being implicated in political corruption linked to the PSOE. It emphasizes the institutional damage caused by their actions and portrays them negatively, particularly highlighting the contrast between
Why these scores (Factual 85 · Objective 80): The article accurately reports the imputations of González and Llamas by Judge Pedraz at the request of the Fiscalía Anticorrupción. It maintains a relatively neutral tone while providing relevant contextual details.
El MundoIndependent🔒ProgressiveFactual 85Objective 8012 days ago
The Spanish court has indicted Mercedes González, the Director General of the Guardia Civil, and Manuel Llamas, the Deputy Chief Operational Officer (DAO), in connection with the 'cloacas' (drainage system) case involving the Socialist Party (PSOE). The indictment was requested by the Anti-Corruption Prosecutor’s Office, accusing them of abuse of power and obstruction of justice. The case centers around Leire Díez, a former socialist militant who worked for the PSOE and allegedly orchestrated investigations into the Guardia Civil’s Unit Central Operative (UCO) for potential leaks related to government cases. Two former UCO officers, Rafael Yuste and Alfonso López Malo, testified before Judge Santiago Pedraz that they were instructed to 'stay out of sight' during investigations into the president’s brother, leading to internal disciplinary actions against UCO members. González denied these claims during a Senate appearance, but the ex-officers refuted her account, stating she had not informed them of her contacts with Díez.
Bias read (Progressive): The article frames the investigation as targeting high-ranking officials within the Guardia Civil, which is a state institution closely tied to the ruling government. While the legal process is presented neutrally, the emphasis on the PSOE's involvement and the implication that the Guardia Civil may
Why these scores (Factual 85 · Objective 80): The article accurately reflects the imputations of González and Llamas based on the Fiscalía Anticorrupción's request. It provides a balanced view of the situation without taking sides.
20minutosIndependentCenterFactual 85Objective 756 days ago
The article reports that Aldama has appeared before a judge in a secret proceeding related to payments made by the Spanish Socialist Workers' Party (PSOE). This development is part of an ongoing investigation into financial matters involving the party. The case involves undisclosed details, suggesting potential legal implications for those involved. The proceedings are being handled confidentially, which may indicate sensitivity surrounding the nature of the payments under scrutiny.
Bias read (Center): The article presents a factual report on a legal proceeding involving a prominent political entity without overtly favoring any side. It does not include biased language, one-sided sourcing, or editorial commentary that would suggest a clear ideological lean.
Why these scores (Factual 85 · Objective 75): The article mentions Aldama appearing before the judge regarding payments related to the PSOE but does not address the main event involving the imputation of the Guardia Civil director. It lacks context and relevance to the primary source document.
El MundoIndependent🔒CenterFactual 85Objective 7513 days ago
The Spanish court case involving Leire Díez, known as 'la fontanera,' has expanded to include former officials from the State Prosecutor's Office. Judge Santiago Pedraz has summoned Diego Villafañe, a Supreme Court prosecutor, and Beatriz López Pesquera, who were both part of the General Prosecutor's Office when they met with lawyer Jacobo Teijelo and Díez at the Fortuny Palace in 2025. These meetings occurred during a period when Díez was allegedly involved in efforts to undermine investigations against the government and the PSOE. The summons comes after accusations from the public prosecutors, which also sought to question former Prosecutor General Álvaro García Ortiz and others. While Pedraz has not agreed to summon García Ortiz directly, he has left the possibility open. The investigation suggests that Díez used denuncias (formal complaints) as a method to damage the reputation of investigators, including members of the UCO, prosecutors, and judges.
Bias read (Center): The article presents a balanced account of the legal proceedings and does not overtly favor any political side. It reports on the judicial actions and allegations without clear ideological slant, focusing on the procedural aspects of the investigation rather than taking a partisan stance.
Why these scores (Factual 85 · Objective 75): The article provides specific details about judicial actions, names of individuals involved, and dates, suggesting strong factual grounding. However, some elements like the motivations behind the meetings are inferred rather than explicitly stated. The tone shows some bias by referring to certain in
El MundoIndependent🔒CenterFactual 85Objective 6512 days ago
Mercedes González, the director general of the Guardia Civil, and her deputy Manuel Llamas have been formally charged after evidence emerged of their personal relationship with Leire Díez, known as 'la fontanera,' who was involved in efforts to undermine investigations into the PSOE and Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez. The charges stem from findings that show both González and Llamas had meetings and communications with Díez, which were initially denied by the interior minister, Fernando Grande-Marlaska. According to prosecutors, these interactions were used by Díez to further the goals of a criminal organization. Additionally, internal investigations were opened against members of the UCO (National Anti-Corruption Unit), allegedly without proper justification, potentially indicating obstruction of justice and abuse of power.
Bias read (Center): The article presents factual information based on judicial proceedings and does not exhibit overtly biased language or selective sourcing. It reports on legal actions taken against high-ranking officials and includes statements from both the prosecution and the accused, maintaining a balanced tone.
Why these scores (Factual 85 · Objective 65): The article accurately covers the imputation of Juan Manuel Serrano but focuses less on the main event and includes some subjective language regarding the rejection of phone analysis.
El MundoIndependent🔒ConservativeFactual 85Objective 6513 days ago
The Spanish conservative party, the People's Party (PP), has requested the indictment of Mercedes González, the head of the Civil Guard, along with former director Leonardo Marcos and Director Adjunct Operational (DAO) Manuel Llamas, over their alleged collaboration with 'the sewers of the PSOE'—a term used to describe corrupt elements within the ruling Socialist Workers' Party (PSOE). The PP claims that González met three times with Leire Díez, a high-ranking PSOE official known for having control over the Civil Guard, and that Marcos and Llamas ordered subordinates to avoid being proactive in cases involving political implications, such as the case of the president’s brother. This follows revelations by the National Anti-Corruption Unit (UCO) that González and Díez communicated via WhatsApp shortly after the publication of messages between Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez and former Transport Minister José Luis Ábalos. The PP has submitted this request to the National Court, which has accepted the summons of prosecutors Diego Villafañe and Beatriz López Pesquera, who were also allegedly involved with PSOE corruption networks.
Bias read (Conservative): The article frames the actions of the PSOE and its allies as corrupt and politically motivated, using strong language like 'cloacas' (sewers) to imply deep-seated corruption. It emphasizes the PP's accusations against the PSOE-aligned figures within the Civil Guard, suggesting a deliberate attemptto
Why these scores (Factual 85 · Objective 65): The article aligns with the primary source but uses emotionally charged terms like 'cloacas' and presents the PP's perspective more prominently, affecting objectivity.
elDiario.esIndependentConservativeFactual 85Objective 6513 days ago
The president of Castile-La Mancha, Emiliano García-Page, has criticized the Spanish Socialist Workers' Party (PSOE) for having over 120 members or former members under investigation. He questions whether the party can claim innocence amid these legal issues and argues that there is a significant disconnect between the party leadership and its grassroots supporters. García-Page expresses concern over the lack of self-criticism within the PSOE and suggests that the current leadership is more focused on maintaining appearances rather than addressing internal challenges. He also comments on the recent decline in the party’s credibility since Pedro Sánchez took over from Alfredo Pérez Rubalcaba, noting a drop in parliamentary representation.
Bias read (Conservative): The article frames the PSOE's legal troubles as a sign of moral failure and weak leadership, using strong language like 'conexión enorme', 'divorcio muy considerable', and 'riesgo evidente'. It emphasizes criticism of the party's leadership and suggests that the current direction under Sánchez is a堕
Why these scores (Factual 85 · Objective 65): This article reports on Emiliano García-Page’s criticism of the PSOE, which is factually correct but leans towards political commentary. It reflects a partisan viewpoint, especially in questioning the party's responsibility, which may not be fully supported by the primary source.
elDiario.esIndependentCenterFactual 80Objective 757 days ago
The commander of the National Police, Rubén Villalba, has testified before the National Court that former socialist activist Leire Díez offered him a position as advisor to the director general of the National Police, Mercedes González, in exchange for sensitive information from the Central Operational Unit (UCO). Villalba, who remains under investigation in the Koldo case for providing secure phones to a network involving businessman Víctor de Aldama, lawyer Koldo García, and former minister José Luis Ábalos, reiterated his previous accounts of two meetings with Díez in March 2025. According to legal sources consulted by elDiario.es, Villalba stated that Díez proposed not only this advisory role but also highly paid positions such as an embassy abroad, and suggested paying for his legal defense in the Koldo case—handled by the same law firm representing Aldama. Villalba claimed that Díez was acting on behalf of powerful figures within the government and the PSOE, aiming to obtain damaging information against the UCO and Lieutenant Colonel Antonio Balas. Villalba explained that he attended these meetings intending to expose Díez rather than cooperate, and that he recorded their交谈.
Bias read (Center): The article presents testimony from a defendant in a high-profile corruption case, focusing on alleged offers made by a political figure. The framing appears balanced, presenting the claims of the accused without overtly favoring either side. There is no clear ideological slant in the language or oм
Why these scores (Factual 80 · Objective 75): Describes Villalba's testimony accurately but includes some interpretive language. Generally aligned with the primary source.
El MundoIndependent🔒ProgressiveFactual 80Objective 707 days ago
The commander of the Spanish National Police, Rubén Villalba, testified before Judge Santiago Pedraz in a case involving Leire Díaz, who is accused of attempting to sabotage judicial proceedings against the PSOE and Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez. Villalba confirmed that Díaz claimed to represent 'the one from the Government,' suggesting she had connections with high-level officials. The meetings between Díaz and Villalba occurred in March 2025, during which Díaz offered her rehabilitation and potential positions within the police force in exchange for information. Villalba recorded the second meeting, which was later published by the newspaper. Other witnesses, including Francisco Ortega and Patricia Isabel Espinar, provided additional context about Díaz's alleged ties to the leadership of the National Police.
Bias read (Progressive): The article frames the allegations against Leire Díaz as part of a broader effort to undermine judicial processes targeting the ruling party (PSOE) and the prime minister. It emphasizes the involvement of high-ranking officials and suggests a systemic issue within the police force. The language used
Why these scores (Factual 80 · Objective 70): Reports on Villalba's testimony accurately but uses some emotionally charged terms like 'fontanera.' Overall factually sound but slightly biased.
infoLibreIndependentCenterFactual 80Objective 6512 days ago
Judge Santiago Pedraz of the National Court has charged the director general of the Guardia Civil, Mercedes González, and the DAO (Director of Operations) of the force, Manuel Llamas, in the 'Leire case.' They are accused of abuse of power and obstruction of justice related to alleged maneuvers by former socialist militant Leire Díez to investigate the UCO (National Anti-Corruption Unit) for possible leaks in cases involving the government and supposed pressures on agents investigating her. The charges stem from actions linked to Leire Díez's efforts to probe potential corruption within the UCO.
Bias read (Center): The article presents factual information about legal proceedings against high-ranking officials in the Guardia Civil, focusing on the charges brought by the court. It does not exhibit clear bias through loaded language, one-sided sourcing, or omission of context. The framing remains neutral, simply
Why these scores (Factual 80 · Objective 65): The article focuses more on political movements within the PSOE and less on the legal aspects of the case. It introduces subjective opinions about internal party dynamics, reducing its objectivity.
★
Keep the news honest.
ObjectiveNews is reader-funded and ad-free — we show you the bias instead of hiding it. Support independent journalism for €5/month.