Conducted Electrical Weapon Deployed Probe Wounds

Abstract

Deployment of probes is a common method of use for some handheld conducted electrical weapons (CEWs). Probe deployment allows for greater spread between the probes that favors induction of neuromuscular incapacitation. The probes can embed in clothing or tissue and leave wounds from kinetic energy impact, penetration trauma, and the conducted electrical current. Factors such as the angle and depth of penetration, the duration of exposure, and the length of time passage since the exposure can create wounds of different appearance.

It is important for clinicians, investigators, and legal authorities to understand these factors and the appearance of these wounds. This will help to avoid confusion and uncertainty. This chapter will aid the reader in improved recognition and understanding of these wounds.