How Pepper Spray Kept My Friend From Being Hurt

One of the great things about a high voltage stun gun, Taser, or pepper spray, is that they often deter crime without the trigger ever being pulled.

The following is a story written by a female friend of mine who served in law enforcement for several years. She shares how simply holding a pepper spray canister in hand and giving a verbal warning helped her avoid what could have been a very painful situation.

Enjoy!

In the spring of 2005, the day began nicely while the sun slowly crept its way up behind the Pikes Peak. It seemed things were going to be perfect until the moment I entered into the Criminal Justice center. A foul smell engulfed the frigid air mixed with distinct aroma from the kitchen. The inmates must be preparing dinner at that time. A few seconds later, I heard a piercing noise emanating from the jail cells in the booking area. I ran toward the scene to assist the officers who appeared to be restraining a female defendant, AKA, Ms. Oblivious. An odor of alcohol escaped her breath as she attempted to resist and yell at the officers. She was extremely intoxicated and uncooperative. The officers gave her instructions to sit quietly, but to no avail. Ms. Oblivious violently threw her arms and body against the cell doors. She was handcuffed and brought to medical for an evaluation.

Ms. Oblivious was arrested on numerous occasions for prostitution and disorderly conduct. It was not surprising to see her in an agitated state due to her history of massive alcohol consumption and drug use. Due to her violent history and mental health issues, it was not uncommon to restrain her to prevent her from hurting herself and others while being detained inside the booking area.

Like many other suspects arrested and brought into the detention facility, the medical station in the booking area is where the incoming defendants were evaluated and assessed before being released into the general population inside the jail. The alleged crimes committed ranged from minor offenses to maximum offenses such as Larceny, DUI, and Homicide.

After a few hours, Ms. Oblivious was cleared by medical and classified to be housed in the mental health ward. The first few days inside the ward was challenging for her and by other inmates housed in the same vicinity. It was mid afternoon when the Psychologist conducted an interview to determine whether or not Ms. Oblivious needed long term care and or medication to stabilize her mood. However, during the interview, Ms. Oblivious refused to answer any questions and terminated the interview right away.

Later on, Ms. Oblivious began yelling obscenities. Her behavior was erratic and disruptive. I instructed her to stay in her cell and be quiet. At this time, she clenched her fist and attempted to strike me. I drew my pepper spray and informed her of my intent to deploy if she did not stand down. Ms. Oblivious turned away and retreated to her cell.

Any confrontation can lead from bad to worse. In this case, it was quickly diffused by non-lethal force. I departed work that night without injuries. The defendant was wise in choosing to stand down. She was not harmed and was released a few days later with bond.

I recommend that individuals be vigilant and be aware of your surroundings. Be prepared to fight or get away. Use non-lethal force like pepper spray to defend yourself. In any given situation, deadly force is the last option to save yourself, or someone else from serious bodily injury or death.