Rikers Island Faces Intense Scrutiny Over Excessive Pepper Spray Use

A recent report reveals a troubling increase in the use of pepper spray against detainees, particularly those with mental illnesses and young adults.

A Board of Correction report highlights a significant rise in pepper spray incidents at Rikers Island, with mentally ill detainees and young adults being disproportionately targeted.
Pepper spray usage doubled since 2018, with an average of 297 incidents per month in 2023, indicating a growing reliance on force.
Staff frequently violated department policies by using pepper spray without consulting mental health staff first and making false statements to justify its use.
Instances of pepper spray being used on detainees attempting suicide and from point-blank range were reported, raising serious ethical concerns.
The Correction Department acknowledges the need for more de-escalation training, but the report calls for a cultural shift and policy improvements to address the root causes of excessive force.