What are the two primary types of chemical agents used by criminal justice officers to control resistant subjects?

The two primary types of chemical agents used by criminal justice officers to control resistant subjects are OC and CS. OC, or oleoresin capsicum, is derived from hot peppers and is commonly known as pepper spray. It is effective in causing temporary blindness, intense burning sensations, and respiratory distress, which help subdue aggressive or non-compliant individuals.

CS, or ortho-chlorobenzalmalonitrile, is a type of tear gas used to incapacitate subjects by causing severe irritation to the eyes, skin, and respiratory tract. This agent is often employed in crowd control situations or where individuals may pose a threat to themselves or others.

Both OC and CS are designed to be non-lethal alternatives to physical force, providing officers with options for managing resistance while minimizing the risk of serious injury. Their use is grounded in the need for effective control in high-stress situations while adhering to principles of proportionality and necessity in the use of force.