Chapter 5 – Adult Custody and Security Operations

51020.15.3 Use of Chemical Agents for Inmates with Mental Health Issues

• In controlled use of force situations for inmates who are housed in Mental Health Crisis Bed, PIP, OHU, PSUPsychiatric Services Unit, EOPEnhanced Outpatient Program, or an Administrative Segregation Unit-EOPEnhanced Outpatient Program Hub, or do not possess the ability to understand orders, have difficulty complying with orders due to mental health issues, or are at increased risk of substantial decompensation from the use of force, the use of chemical agents is prohibited, unless the Warden, Chief Deputy Warden (or AODAdministrative Officer of the Day during non-business hours) authorize the use.

• If circumstances involve an imminent threat, the use of chemical agents is authorized in accordance with this section for use against an inmate who may not possess the ability to understand orders or to gain control of a disturbance involving inmates who may have mental health issues.