Puerto Rico Correction Officials Debate Gas Pepper Spray Ban's Impact on Youth Violence
October 03, 2025 | House of Representatives, House, Committees, Legislative, Puerto Rico
This article was created by AI summarizing key points discussed. AI makes mistakes, so for full details and context, please refer to the video of the full meeting. Please report any errors so we can fix them. Report an error »
The recent government meeting held by the Cámara de Representantes in Puerto Rico on October 3, 2025, spotlighted the contentious issue of pepper spray usage among correctional officers in juvenile facilities. The discussion centered around the implications of Law 47-2022, which eliminated the use of pepper spray as a tool for maintaining order, raising concerns about the safety of both staff and minors.
During the meeting, representatives expressed their worries about the increased risk of violence in juvenile facilities since the removal of pepper spray. One official highlighted that the absence of this non-lethal tool has left correctional officers with limited means to manage aggressive behavior among minors, particularly in situations involving weapons. "The only tool we have now is our hands," one officer stated, emphasizing the dangers they face without adequate protective measures.
Statistics were requested to assess the impact of this law on incidents of violence within the facilities. Officials noted that while they have data from 2021, a more comprehensive analysis is needed to understand the current situation. The urgency of this request underscores the critical need for effective tools to ensure safety in these environments.
The meeting also revealed that correctional officers have reported feeling unsafe and have considered resigning due to the lack of protective equipment. One officer candidly admitted to fearing for his life while on duty, a sentiment echoed by many of his colleagues. The discussion raised significant questions about the adequacy of training and resources provided to staff, with some arguing that the current protocols do not sufficiently prepare them for the realities of their work.
As the meeting concluded, the representatives acknowledged the need for a reevaluation of the regulations surrounding the use of pepper spray and other non-lethal tools. The outcome of this discussion could lead to significant changes in policy, aimed at enhancing the safety of both correctional officers and the youth they oversee. The call for a review of the law reflects a growing recognition of the challenges faced in juvenile correctional facilities and the urgent need for effective solutions.
During the meeting, representatives expressed their worries about the increased risk of violence in juvenile facilities since the removal of pepper spray. One official highlighted that the absence of this non-lethal tool has left correctional officers with limited means to manage aggressive behavior among minors, particularly in situations involving weapons. "The only tool we have now is our hands," one officer stated, emphasizing the dangers they face without adequate protective measures.
Statistics were requested to assess the impact of this law on incidents of violence within the facilities. Officials noted that while they have data from 2021, a more comprehensive analysis is needed to understand the current situation. The urgency of this request underscores the critical need for effective tools to ensure safety in these environments.
The meeting also revealed that correctional officers have reported feeling unsafe and have considered resigning due to the lack of protective equipment. One officer candidly admitted to fearing for his life while on duty, a sentiment echoed by many of his colleagues. The discussion raised significant questions about the adequacy of training and resources provided to staff, with some arguing that the current protocols do not sufficiently prepare them for the realities of their work.
As the meeting concluded, the representatives acknowledged the need for a reevaluation of the regulations surrounding the use of pepper spray and other non-lethal tools. The outcome of this discussion could lead to significant changes in policy, aimed at enhancing the safety of both correctional officers and the youth they oversee. The call for a review of the law reflects a growing recognition of the challenges faced in juvenile correctional facilities and the urgent need for effective solutions.
View full meeting
This article is based on a recent meeting—watch the full video and explore the complete transcript for deeper insights into the discussion.
View full meeting