A Birmingham police officer was arrested today after authorities say he used pepper spray on another officer.

West Precinct Officer Shaun Deane, an eight-year veteran of the force, is charged with use of a noxious substance, said Sgt. Bryan Shelton. The incident happened nearly one year ago - in July 2015. Shelton said there were questions whether the use of the Mace on the co-worker was intention or horseplay but either way was inappropriate behavior that is a violation of department policy.

An investigation was launched and disciplinary actions were taken, Shelton said. Deane has been taken out of service pending resolution through the Birmingham Municipal Court system.

The disciplinary action wasn't immediately available but community activist Frank Matthews discussed the incident at a city council meeting in March. He used the incident as an example of mistreatment of black officers, and said in this case, Deane was given only 15 days off while the unnamed black officer received 30 days off. Birmingham police said, however, the black officer did not receive any days off and was not punished.

"The officer/victim in this case, just like any other citizen, has up to one year to sign a warrant,'' Shelton said. "Also, the officer has always had the option to seek action through the court system so he is exercising his right."