Which two chemical agents are primarily used by criminal justice officers to control resistant subjects?

• A. Oleo-resin capsicum (OC) and Orthochlorobenzal (CS)
• B. CS and CN
• C. OC and CN
• D. Pepper spray and tear gas

Answer: (A)

Law enforcement mainly relies on two chemical irritants to subdue resistant subjects: oleoresin capsicum, known as OC or pepper spray, and orthochlorobenzalmalononitrile, known as CS or tear gas. OC causes a burning sensation of the eyes, skin irritation, and temporary incapacity through coughing and lid closure, making it easier to gain control at close range. CS produces tearing, irritated eyes and mucous membranes, coughing, and disorientation, contributing to rapid incapacitation. These two are the most widely used in many agencies today because they offer quick, targeted effects with relatively lower risk to bystanders when deployed properly. CN is an older tear-gas option and is less commonly used now, and describing the tools as “pepper spray and tear gas” is accurate in general terms but does not name the specific chemical agents.