--- In SkunkworksAMA_at_yahoogroups.com, "Nightmask" <starfox@...> wrote:
>
> Would spraying someone be a misdemeanor or a felony? While it's
unpleasant it's not a lethal or permanently disabling attack like say
biting or clawing someone could be. Also does that mean that a skunk
spraying is considered guilty of a wrongdoing until proven innocent,
instead of innocent until proven guilty of spraying without just cause?
If it's proven to be self-defense, then there aren't any charges.
Otherwise, it would be considered a misdemeanor. Technically, though,
a skunk doesn't produce any musk to spray unless he/she is
cornered/frightened. It would be considered their initial take on
the "fight or flight" reaction. Asking a skunk to spray you would
result in no action, aside from a few strange looks. But if you throw
one against the wall, punch it or threaten it with a weapon, you will
get sprayed.
The spray can cause blindness if it goes directly into the eyes.
Otherwise, it makes the attacker nauseous and quite rancid smelling
(and thusly, easy for the cops to locate).
Good question, man.
--JMH
Received on Sat Feb 09 2008 - 16:16:25 CST