Fabricated wounds are those which are produced by a person on his own body or by another person by his consent. These are otherwise known as self-inflicted wounds. They are fictitious, forged, or invented wounds. They have mostly incised wounds or else contusions. Lacerated wounds are very rare in a fabricated wound.
The fabricated wound in the form of an incised wound is usually parallel and of equal depth at origin and termination. These injuries are not seen at vital points like eyes, lips, ears, and nose. In the forehead it might be in the forward direction, if the wound is on the outer side of the upper arm then it will be directed above and downwards. The direction of the wound can vary on the legs and is mostly vertical.
If the fabrication is in the form of burns, then they will be superficial and the location will depend on the handedness of the person. If the person is left-handed then the wound will be seen usually over the right upper arm and vice versa. The clothes are not cut or torn. Even if they are, they do not correspond to the underlying injuries. The history given is incompatible with the injuries sustained.
Motives of Fabricated Wounds
- These types of wounds are inflicted to charge another person with assault or attempt to murder.
- To change a simple injury into a grievous one and also use it for medical benefits.
- By the assailant to pretend self-defense or to change the appearance of the wounds which can connect him to the crime.
- By prisoners to bring a charge of assault on officers.
- By military men to escape service or for leave.
- By women, to bring a charge of sexual assault.
- By mentally ill people or to fabricate feigned insanity.
- Religious fanatics.
- For blackmailing.
Even if it is a wound that is completely healed, the healed scars can also be examined and be proven to be a fabricated wound. Multiple linear scar marks present at multiple sites which are almost symmetrical in pattern, the presence of these in accessible and approachable areas are signs indicating a fabricated wound.
Conclusion
There is no direct punishment mentioned in law for fabricated wounds. Examination of the assault is important to avoid false charges and avoid unnecessary burden on investigating authority.
The manner of injury can only be studied after proper scientific examination of their characteristics. Fabricated wounds can be ruled out only after proper history and careful examination considering the multiplicity, direction, accessibility, depth, pattern, and sites of injuries.
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