NCJ Number
191362
Journal
CTM-Corrections Technology & Management Volume: 5 Issue: 5 Dated: September/October 2001 Pages: 14-17
Date Published
2001
Length
4 pages
Annotation
Four professionals from the corrections field comment on their OC (oleoresin capsicum) training experiences and beliefs, with attention to the requirement that trainees be contaminated with the spray to become certified in the product's use.
Abstract
The professionals interviewed agreed that training in the use and effects of OC should include exposing the trainees personally to the effects of being sprayed with OC. This has a number of benefits for the officer should he/she use OC in the field or be on the receiving end of an OC spray. First, officers who are sprayed experience how uncomfortable a subject may be after being sprayed. This has two training benefits. Officers will refrain from using the OC spray on people unless absolutely necessary, and they will gain an understanding of how the OC will impact those they spray with it. Second, officers who have experienced the effects of OC in training can testify in court to the effects of OC based on experience. This is particularly important should a suit be brought against the department because of the use of OC spray by an officer. Third, scenario training gives officers an experience of their capacity to perform necessary duties should they themselves become a victim of OC spray. This is important, because officers in the field must not have the belief that lethal force must be used to prevent themselves from being sprayed by OC. In experiencing the effects of the OC spray, officers will learn that they retain the capacity to exercise certain skills in defending themselves without the use of lethal force. Fourth, by being sprayed with OC, officers build and enhance a critical survival attitude.