NCJ Number
141740
Journal
Journal of Forensic Sciences Volume: 38 Issue: 2 Dated: (March 1993) Pages: 359-364
Date Published
1993
Length
6 pages
Annotation
This article describes two cases of asphyxiation in which the male victims suspended themselves on the hydraulic shovels of tractors for masochistic sexual stimulation. The first case involved a backhoe, while the second victim used a frontend loader shovel.
Abstract
The first victim evidenced hypoxyphilia through his repetitive self-suspensions by the neck. He developed a romantic attachment to his tractor, even giving it a name; the authors suggest the altered mental state and perceptual distortions engendered by hypoxia were the primary effects he sought in his self-hangings. In the second case, the victim died of positional asphyxiation by chest compression. He engaged in sexual bondage and cross-dressing, and died when accidentally pinned to the ground under a shovel after he intentionally suspended himself by the ankles. These cases were characterized by escape mechanisms and a lack of suicidal ideation, both of which are essential features of accidental autoerotic asphyxiation. Other reported autoerotic deaths have involved the use of machinery, usually household or homemade electrical devices that cause electrocution. Individuals who engage in dangerous autoerotic practices can be treated with antiandrogenic medication to reduce the intensity of their sexual drives. 2 figures and 17 references