NCJ Number
149250
Date Published
Unknown
Length
40 pages
Annotation
The goal of this course is to develop expertise in the use of and knowledge about oleoresin capsicum (OC) as a less than lethal force option that will increase a police officer's chance of neutralizing an aggressive situation before it occurs and decrease the chance of injury to the police officer, the suspect, and the public.
Abstract
After completing the course, police officers should have a working knowledge of OC's chemical composition, physiological and psychological effects of exposure to OC on both humans and animals, and tactics for spraying OC using the lateral step method. The course should also enable police officers to understand differences between OC spray patterns, distances, and durations; procedures for decontamination, medical treatment, and proper documentation; when to use OC instead of other force options; and legalities associated with the possession and use of OC by the public. The course contains information on OC research by the Federal Bureau of Investigation, OC products approved by the California Department of Justice, a comparison of injuries to police officers and suspects according to weapon type, OC use in California, and California Penal Code provisions related to tear gas use. References, tables, and figures