Citation

Kaminski RJ, Edwards SM, Johnson JW. Policing (Bradford) 1999; 22(1): 7-30.

Copyright

(Copyright © 1999, Emerald Group Publishing)

DOI

10.1108/13639519910257801

PMID

unavailable

Abstract

This article investigates the effectiveness of pepper spray as a means of aiding arrest. The authors aim to provide a more rigorous study than has previously been achieved. Data from the Baltimore County Police Department have been used in this analysis. The evaluation undertaken has taken into account the "effective-ineffective" dichotomy of the incapacitating effects of pepper spray as well as whether those being arrested were drunk, under the influence of drugs or mentally disturbed. Five variables of age, weight, height, race and sex were also recorded, the latter three having little or no effect. The overall conclusion which is drawn is that using pepper spray eases arrest in the majority of instances. The conclusions drawn leave the way open for further detailed analysis of the use of the spray to ease arrest.