Who has the authority to authorize the use of CS chemical munitions?

The authority to authorize the use of CS chemical munitions typically lies with a commissioned officer. This is because commissioned officers possess the requisite training, authority, and responsibility to make critical operational decisions regarding the use of force and safety protocols, particularly in high-stakes scenarios. The use of chemical munitions requires careful consideration of the potential impact on both the suspects and bystanders, as well as adherence to departmental policies and legal guidelines.

Commissioned officers have a comprehensive understanding of the laws governing the use of force and are expected to exercise sound judgment in their deployment. They also have the authority to coordinate with other units and ensure that the use of such munitions is justified and necessary for achieving operational objectives while minimizing risk to innocent individuals.

In contrast, other roles such as civilian supervisors, team leaders, or department directors may not have the same level of authority or specific training pertaining to the use of chemical munitions, making it essential that this responsibility is vested in those trained and authorized to make such critical determinations.