Citation

Pinaud V, Leconte P, Berthier F, Potel G, Dupas B. Inj. Extra 2009; 40(9): 172-174.

Copyright

(Copyright © 2009, Elsevier Publishing)

DOI

10.1016/j.injury.2009.05.026

PMID

unavailable

Abstract

The Flash-Ball® is a new less-lethal handgun developed by the French arms manufacturer Verney-Carron (St Etienne, France). Since 1995, it has been used by several special units of the French Police (GIPN Groupe d’Intervention de la Police Nationale, BAC Brigade Anti Criminalité and RAID Recherche Assistance Intervention Dissuation, all of whom are SWAT equivalents) and by other law enforcement and police forces. Its efficacy is based on a dissuasive look and its detonation, as well as the resulting impact which is equivalent to a technical knockout (KO). It is alleged that there is no skin penetration through clothes, even in the case of a close-range shot. Indeed, the kinetic energy of the rubber ball is deployed on impact to a large cross-sectional surface (35 cm2); it crushes the target rather than perforating it as is done by classically fired bullets. However, the relative low risk of this weapon may be questioned in real life.

Even if the penetrating power of the less-lethal weapons seems to be limited, the impact may produce distant and severe injury. Skin penetration may be observed due to the high-energy impact delivered by a short-range shot with resultant severe or lethal injuries. Our report emphasises the real potential of the less-lethal weapons (i.e. the Flash Ball®) for causing casualties. They are not to be fired at the head and if the globe is hit, it is rarely salvageable. Strict compliance with clear guidelines is therefore essential when using them.