Use of Mace and Pepper Spray Lawyer in Philadelphia Advocating for The Victims of Excessive Force

The use of excessive force by law enforcement is an epidemic that is happening all across the country, including Philadelphia, and it needs to be addressed. The use of mace and pepper spray as a form of excessive force is also on the rise.

When these weapons are used indiscriminately, they can cause serious injuries. Victims can suffer from permanent blindness, respiratory problems, and even death.

This type of excessive force is often used by police officers, security guards, and other law enforcement officials. And while it may be legal and warranted in some cases, it’s often unnecessary and can cause serious harm.

If you or someone you know has been a victim of this type of excessive force, you need to speak with a lawyer. The legal team at Liberty Law Team is experienced in handling these cases and can help you get the justice you deserve. Call Liberty Law Team today at 215-732-3474 for the dedicated legal representation, advice, and guidance you deserve for your case.

What is Excessive Force?

Excessive force is the use of force beyond what is necessary to achieve a legitimate law enforcement purpose. It is a form of police brutality, and it can result in serious injuries or even death.

There are many ways that excessive force can be used, but one of the most common is through the use of mace and pepper spray. Mace and pepper spray are designed to be non-lethal weapons, but they can still cause serious harm if they are used excessively.

In most cases, mace and pepper spray should only be used as a last resort, when other methods of de-escalation have failed. However, there have been many instances where police officers have used these weapons with malice, causing unnecessary pain and suffering to unsuspecting victims. While officers may resort to mace and pepper spray when they feel they are in danger, many times, officers use this as an initial intimidation tactic. The results end up being the same – an individual who is left feeling helpless, confused, and in pain.

If you have been the victim of excessive force by a police officer involving mace or pepper spray, it is important to seek legal help as soon as possible. An experienced civil rights attorney can help you understand your options and take steps to hold the responsible parties accountable.

What Injuries Can Be Sustained from Pepper Spray?

Though pepper spray is non-lethal, it can still cause some serious injuries. In fact, when used excessively or in close quarters, pepper spray can cause:

Chemical Burns

Pepper spray can cause chemical burns if it is sprayed on someone’s face at close range. These burns can be incredibly painful and can cause lasting damage. In some cases, they may even require hospitalization.

Temporary Blindness

Pepper spray can also cause temporary blindness. This is because it can cause the eyes to swell shut and/or become incredibly inflamed. In some cases, this blindness can last for hours or even days.

So, if you’re ever faced with law enforcement using pepper spray unreasonably, seek medical attention if necessary. It’s important to remember that pepper spray is still a dangerous weapon, even if it’s non-lethal.

Difficulty Breathing

Pepper spray can also cause difficulty breathing. This is because the chemical can irritate the respiratory system, making it difficult to breathe. In some cases, this difficulty can trigger other alarming and serious reactions that may require medical attention.

In a few cases, pepper spray and mace usage has even been linked to heart attacks and death. This is partially due to the distressing nature of being attacked by someone who has been sworn in to protect you. If you’ve suffered any of the injuries or others due to a mace or pepper spray attack by law enforcement, let us help you get the justice you deserve.

Can I Receive a Settlement for Being Pepper Sprayed Unlawfully?

Being on the receiving end of an unlawful pepper spray attack can be a harrowing experience. If you or a loved one have been the victim of police brutality involving mace or pepper spray, you may be wondering if you are eligible to receive a settlement.

The use of mace and pepper spray by law enforcement is regulated by state and federal laws. In general, the use of mace or pepper spray is only permissible if a person poses an imminent threat of physical harm to themselves or others. Even then, police officers must use the minimum amount of force necessary to diffuse the situation.

If you were unlawfully pepper-sprayed by a police officer, you may be able to file a civil rights lawsuit against the officer or department and recover damages for your injuries. These damages include medical expenses, pain and suffering, lost wages, and more. To learn more about your legal rights and options after being pepper-sprayed, contact an experienced civil rights attorney in Philadelphia today. An experienced police brutality attorney, like Lonny Fish at Liberty Law Team, can advocate for your rights, investigate your claim, prove that negligence took place, and negotiate a full and fair settlement for the damages you have suffered.

Contact Liberty Law Team Today to Get the Help You Deserve

If you or a loved one has been the victim of excessive force involving mace or pepper spray, it is important to seek legal help as soon as possible. The sooner you seek help, the likelier it is to preserve evidence and protect your legal rights.

At Liberty Law Team, we are ready to help you get the justice you deserve. For compassionate and strong legal representation, reach out to Liberty Law Team today at 215-732-3474 and get started.