5-06/045.06 – CEW preferred target areas – avoid sensitive areas



The Department recognizes that probes may impact an unintended area during a dynamic incident. When feasible, Department members are to aim for preferred target areas and avoid sensitive areas to reduce the risk of potential serious injury or death.

The preferred target areas on a subject's front are lower center mass (below the chest) and the preferred target areas on a subject's back are below the neck area. Back shots are preferable to front shots when feasible.

Department members are to make reasonable efforts to avoid hitting sensitive areas (face, eyes, head, throat, chest area/area of the heart, groin, genitals, or areas with a known pre-existing injury).

If applicable, Department members are to articulate in their use of force report the reasons why probes lodged outside of preferred target areas or hit a sensitive area.