Critics Voice Concerns Over ICE’s New Electric Shock Gloves

Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) intends to equip its officers with gloves that can deliver painful electric shocks. This plan has attracted criticism from Democratic elected officials and civil rights advocates for being unnecessary and harsh.

ICE plans to allocate between $10 million and $20 million for these gloves. Known as the G.L.O.V.E., short for Generated Low Output Voltage Emitter, these gloves appear normal until activated. A button enables their electrical function, causing pain to encourage compliance without leaving marks like Tasers.

Widespread Deployment and Criticism

The purchase suggests ICE intends to distribute the gloves widely among its officers. These gloves have been more commonly used in jails rather than on streets. In recent years, ICE officers have faced criticism for using excessive force during immigration enforcement activities.

New York Attorney General Letitia James expressed outrage, warning of potential legal consequences for any misuse of the gloves in her state. The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) stated that all equipment decisions are made carefully to ensure compliance with law enforcement standards.

Safety Concerns and Past Incidents

Though marketed as nonlethal, a lawsuit claims a man died in 2024 after being shocked multiple times by these gloves and a Taser in a Kentucky jail. An internal investigation reported shocks exceeded recommended limits, heightening health risk. Other lawsuits accuse the gloves of causing injuries, though these cases were dismissed.

Public and Legislative Response

Several Congress members publicly stated that ICE does not require additional weaponry. They highlighted the potential danger these gloves pose to various populations, including the elderly, children, pregnant women, and the severely handicapped.

Michael Mannheimer, a law professor, expressed concern that easy access might lead officers to misuse the gloves rather than opt for less forceful measures. The device’s user manual advises against using it for punitive or non-threatening situations.

Procurement Process and Manufacturer’s Stance

A notice in a DHS database indicated plans for a no-bid contract for the gloves’ purchase may initiate soon, with the contract lasting until March 2027. The manufacturer, Compliant Technologies LLC, declined to comment.