Call To Downtown NYPD

Yes, I'd like to speak with someone who can tell me if carrying pepper-spray is legal in New York City.*

Hold please...

23 minutes later...

You the one wanting to carry pepper-spray in the CITY?

Yes, officer, if it's legal to do so that is.

Why do you feel you need to carry pepper-spray?

For self-defense purposes, officer...

Listen pal, you're better off letting the police protect you, and that's no matter where you are but the CITY especially.

Thank you for the advice, officer, but my question was regarding the legality of possessing the spray.

That's not an easy question to answer. Depends on so many factors so there's really no yes or no about it. If you use it and you're the aggressor then it can be assault with a deadly weapon. Even if you're not, if the person you use it on catches a heart attack let's say, then it's disproportionate force on force. Better off leaving the shit home and letting the police handle things like I says. They are trained to handle such matters.

Thank you again officer, but could you tell me if simply carrying it is legal?

Nah. I wouldn't, that's all. You're asking for trouble and stand the good chance of being held for the DA's office to decide and that's the truth. Too many mitigating factors and that's why we have the DA's office.

Thank you again for your time officer.

Not a problem.
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*For The Record: Pepper spray cannisters of 2 ounces or less are perfectly legal to carry in NYC.