B. Procedure
1. The PepperBall system is a less lethal chemical agent delivery system that may be used on individual suspects, as well as crowd control situations.
2. PepperBall projectiles are plastic spheres filled with powder or liquid oleoresin capsicum (OC), a marking paint, or water. Each sphere is designed for a specific purpose and is color coated to distinguish its specific use. Agents shall ensure that the correct projectile is used for the situation encountered. A high-pressure device is used to launch these projectiles.
3. The use of the PepperBall system in crowd control or riot control shall ordinarily be authorized by an agent of the rank of Sergeant or higher, except, in the event of a dire emergency where the agent in charge of a field situation cannot reasonably contact higher authority, the agent in charge of such situation may authorize the use of a chemical agent in the circumstance hereinabove indicated.
4. When deploying the PepperBall system, the preferred target areas are from the upper torso and below. The operator should not intentionally target the head/neck or spine.
5. A white/glass shattering projectile shall not be used on a person unless the use of deadly physical force is justified.
C. Rule
1. Prior to the deployment of a chemical agent, due regard shall be exercised for the safety of the subject, police agents, and innocent citizens. Proper scene cordon and evacuation techniques shall be utilized.
2. Designated Pepperball system operators, as with all weapons, must receive documented use of force policies, system training and demonstrate proficiency prior to department authorization to utilize this device. In-service training and proficiency testing is required at least biennially.
