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Electrocution during sexual activity
Insights
Two individuals died from electrocution during sexual activity involving a homemade electrical stimulation device. The apparatus, connected to a voltage regulator, caused severe burns and fatal injuries.
Area of Science:
- Forensic Pathology
- Toxicology
- Electrical Injury Analysis
Background:
- Investigated a case of unexplained deaths in a couple engaged in sexual activity.
- Examined the scene for potential causes of death, focusing on unusual devices present.
Observation:
- Two bodies discovered in a home, appearing to have died during sexual intercourse.
- An elaborate electrical stimulation apparatus was found connected to both individuals via rectal insertion of metal rods.
- The device utilized a Variac voltage regulator, set at 90 volts but capable of higher output.
Findings:
- Both victims sustained severe third-degree burns, including rectal, vaginal, and penile tissues, with perforation in the female.
- The male victim also had burns on his left index finger.
- The deaths were directly attributed to electrocution from the experimental sexual device.
Implications:
- Highlights the extreme risks associated with experimental sexual practices and homemade electrical devices.
- Underscores the importance of forensic investigation in identifying novel causes of death.
- Provides a case study for medical examiners and law enforcement regarding electrical injury fatalities.
Abstract:
In late summer several years ago, the county medical examiner was called by the police to view two bodies found in bed in a private home. The home belonged to a 39-year-old caucasian male whose body was one of those found in the bed. The other body was that of a 31-year-old caucasian female. The female body overlaid that of the male. It was obvious that the couple was engaged in sexual relations when they died. The deaths apparently were related to the use of an elaborate apparatus utilizing electrical current for stimulation. A heavy metal rod measuring 22 cm in length and 2.5 cm in diameter was inserted 18 cm into the male's rectum. A small wire was attached by a rubber band leading to a Variac voltage regulator. There was a metal rod 20 cm long with a rounded tip 1 cm wide tapering to 0.75 cm in the shaft. A metal ring was attached to the exposed end and the male partner's index finger was touching it. The rod was inserted 18 cm into the female's rectum with a similar wire attached and leading to the voltage regulator. The regulator was set at 90 volts, but the dial could be turned up to 130 volts. In the room nearby were other stimulation devices, including a La Vida vibrator on a bed table and a Niagara type vibrator found under the bed. On the bed table was also noted a 1-lb. jar of lubricating cream. The couple was last seen alive more than 24 hours before. Third-degree burns were found in the rectum and vagina with perforation of the posterior vagina and anterior rectum in the female victim. In the male victim, third-degree burns were noted on the tip of the left index finger, the rectum, and the penis. The voltage regulator was plugged into a wall socket when the police arrived.