OC should not be used on a subject who is being or will be TASED when working with other law enforcement agencies that carry TASERS.

• A. True
• B. False
• C. Only with supervisor approval
• D. Depends on the subject

Answer: (A)

Combining a chemical irritant with a TASER deployment introduces safety risks for the subject and complicates scene management in multi-agency settings. When a subject is about to be or is being incapacitated by a TASER, the electrical effects already impair control and breathing to some extent. Introducing OC spray at that moment can intensify airway and eye irritation, trigger coughing or gagging, and potentially lead to respiratory distress or aspiration. This makes it harder to safely control the subject and monitor their status, and it can also create confusion or exposure risks for responding officers, especially when other agencies are involved and carry TASERS.

For these reasons, avoiding OC on a subject who will be or is being TASED by another agency is the safer, more coordinated approach. After the TASER effect has ceased and the subject is under control, OC can be considered if still warranted and safe, following policy.