Having cameras pointed at you is an even stronger reason to make sure you don't overstep, not a reason to use pepper spray. The cop obviously thought it was appropriate or else he wouldn't have done it, that doesn't mean that it was right though.

I won't argue that it was assault on the cops part, but I'm sure some scumbag lawyer will.. I just think it was an overstepping of bounds which the cop should be punished for but not necessarily criminally. I guess he has been put on admin leave (more than likely paid) and will return to duty after this all blows over.