On November 25, 1992, the Los Angeles Times reported that the LAPD was testing a new chemical irritant spray called oleoresin capsicum. (This is commonly called "Pepper Spray," and, until recently, was unlawful in California to be sold to or possessed by civilians.) The report says that a form of the irritant was used by "the Chinese military in the 15th Century . . . ." and that it "drastically affects the mucous membranes in the face and shuts down' the eyes, nose and throat." The report quotes LAPD Commander Michael Bostic, "You can't breathe, . . . You kind of go into hyperventilation. It's so restrictive, it's scary."
The reports are available for a price. See ACLU-SC Home Page.
6-16-95 Press Release re: Report Detailing 26 Fatalities
6-18-95 Follow-up Press Release
10-23-97 Press Release re: October 1997 Pepper Spray Death in Novata, CA
Recently the Berkeley Police Review Commission analyized Berkeley Police incident reports of use of pepper spray. View the analysis here.
The analysis raises questions about whether pepper spray is even effective. It appears that a substantial number of suspects who are sprayed become even more combative. And the spray occasionally disables police officers employing it. The Police Review Commission recommeded that the police discontinue use of the spray. The Chairman of the Commission is Aaron Handel .
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