The Health Effects of Conducted Energy Weapons

Summary

The use of conducted energy weapons (CEWs) by law enforcement agencies around the world has grown rapidly in recent years. CEWs are devices that use electrical energy to induce pain or to immobilize or incapacitate a person. The health effects of CEWs are one of several factors that police and correctional agencies, policy makers, and front-line personnel must take into account when deciding whether such devices should be used in the field.

Key Findings

To better understand the health-related effects of CEWs, Defence Research and Development Canada requested an independent, evidence-based assessment of the state of scientific knowledge regarding the medical and physiological impacts of conducted energy weapons. The CCA worked collaboratively with the Canadian Academy of Health Sciences on this science-based assessment.

• There is a need for higher-quality evidence to fully understand the relationship between CEW use and potential adverse health effects;
• A comparable and standardized approach for documenting and reporting adverse effects after a CEW discharge, by law enforcement and health professionals, is needed to improve the state of the evidence; and  
• Improved surveillance and monitoring should be taken into account when considering future policies and practices.