What is commonly referred to as a chemical agent in law enforcement?

In law enforcement, a chemical agent refers to substances that can incapacitate or control individuals through chemical means. Pepper spray, which is a common self-defense tool used by law enforcement officials, fits this definition perfectly. It contains capsaicin, the active component derived from chili peppers, which irritates the eyes, causing temporary blindness, pain, and breathing difficulties. This incapacitating effect makes it effective for crowd control and subduing individuals who pose a threat without resorting to lethal force.

While smoke grenades can create visual obstructions and are used for tactical purposes, they do not incapacitate individuals in the same manner as a chemical agent. Stun guns deliver electrical shocks to incapacitate a person temporarily and do not involve chemical agents at all. Water cannons, though used for dispersing crowds, primarily employ water and are not classified as chemical agents. Therefore, pepper spray is distinctly recognized as a chemical agent due to its specific active ingredient and the manner in which it affects individuals.