Pepper Ball Used to Control Inmates at Richmond County Jail

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A deputy at the Charles B. Webster Detention Center in Augusta, Georgia used a pepper ball to control a group of inmates who refused to comply with lockdown orders on Thursday afternoon. The incident occurred when the deputy was attempting to secure a housing block, and several inmates began circling the deputy in an aggressive manner. To regain control, the deputy deployed a single pepper ball into the concrete flooring, producing an irritant cloud that resulted in the inmates complying. There were no reported injuries to inmates or deputies.

Why it matters

The use of force by law enforcement, even less-lethal methods like pepper balls, in correctional facilities raises concerns about inmate rights, de-escalation tactics, and the overall conditions and treatment of incarcerated individuals. This incident highlights the challenges faced by detention center staff in maintaining order and security.

The details

According to the Richmond County Sheriff's Office, around 3 p.m. on Thursday, a deputy assigned to the Charles B. Webster Detention Center was attempting to secure a housing block by initiating lockdown procedures. Several inmates refused to comply with the lockdown orders and began circling the deputy in an aggressive manner. To gain control of the situation, the deputy deployed a single pepper ball into the concrete flooring, producing an irritant cloud that resulted in the inmates complying. After the housing area had sufficiently aired out, the inmates were returned and secured back into lockdown.

• The incident occurred around 3 p.m. on Thursday, February 5, 2026.