What is a common purpose of non-lethal weapons in jail environments?

The primary purpose of non-lethal weapons in jail environments is to ensure inmate compliance without causing permanent harm. These tools are designed to provide law enforcement and correctional officers with options that can diffuse hostile situations effectively while minimizing the risk of serious injury or lasting physical damage to the inmates.

In situations where officers must control an inmate's behavior—whether to prevent violence or to maintain safety—non-lethal weapons serve as a means to apply necessary force in a measured way. This approach aligns with the goal of maintaining order and discipline within correctional facilities while adhering to ethical standards and the principles of proportionality in the use of force.

The other options suggest approaches that could escalate conflict or violate the rights of the individuals involved, which is contrary to the purpose of employing non-lethal methods. Non-lethal weapons are specifically intended to provide a less harmful alternative to lethal force, thereby fostering a safer environment for both inmates and staff.