THE ROLE OF MUNICIPAL GUARDS IN THE PUBLIC SECURITY SYSTEM: A LEGAL ANALYSIS AND THE MILITARY POLICE STAFFING CRISIS

Abstract

This article sought to analyze the redefining of the role of Municipal Guards in light of the structural crisis regarding personnel and logistics within the São Paulo State Military Police (PMESP). The objective is to investigate the legal viability of the Guards as public security agencies and to demonstrate the impact of deteriorating state conditions on attrition within the military police career. The methodology employs a qualitative approach—based on an analysis of ADPF 995 and the Unified Public Security System (SUSP)—and a quantitative approach using official PMESP data (2010–2025). The results reveal a 110% increase in resignation requests and an operational personnel deficit of 13,216 officers in 2025, a situation exacerbated by logistical management failures regarding Personal Protective Equipment (PPE). The study concludes that strengthening Municipal Guards represents a growing and legally supported trend to address gaps in the state security model.