ICE proposes $10-$20 million purchase of shock-delivery gloves
U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement is planning to acquire thousands of electronic shock gloves, prompting criticism from civil-rights groups and former officials over potential misuse.
The Department of Homeland Security announced a plan to spend between $10 million and $20 million on electronic shock-delivery gloves for Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) agents. The devices, marketed by Compliant Technologies of Richmond, Kentucky, are described by the manufacturer as a non-lethal “soft empty hand” tool that delivers a low-output voltage shock to disrupt sensory nerves without breaking the skin.
Demonstration videos released by the company show the gloves causing rapid muscle spasms and forcing subjects to collapse onto a mat within seconds. The company’s promotional caption noted that the effect “sucks less than other options.”
Civil-rights organizations expressed concern that the gloves could add to ICE’s already controversial enforcement tactics. “There is a trust in law enforcement with extreme power over human life, because you believe the people you’re entrusting are trained and they’re careful,” said Naureen Shah, director of policy and government affairs for immigration at the ACLU. “ICE has broken that trust with the public … the mission is simply to scare.”
Former ICE acting director John Sandweg questioned the acquisition, citing recent challenges with use-of-force oversight. “Given the struggles the agency’s having with use of force, to deploy a less-lethal tool … raises massive concerns,” he said, estimating the agency could buy 10,000 to 15,000 pairs.
When asked for comment, Compliant Technologies declined to answer, but its website states the gloves are used by law-enforcement agencies nationwide and have been tested on individuals with cardiovascular devices without reported issues. The company advises against use on pregnant women, children and people with heart conditions.
Homeland Security defended the procurement, stating that “every decision is made with careful consideration and appropriately reviewed to make sure that any technology ICE utilizes is consistent with all applicable law enforcement policies and standards,” and that officers receive de-escalation training.
Experts warned that public perception of the technology could undermine compliance. “If the public doesn’t understand it and they don’t trust it, they’re not going to view it as procedurally just,” said Bryanna Fox, a criminology professor and former FBI agent. “What they’ll have is fear.”