ICE plans $20 million purchase of electric shock gloves

U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) is planning to spend up to $20 million to equip agents with electric shock gloves known as G.L.O.V.E.s (Generated Low Output Voltage Emitters). Produced by Compliant Technologies, these devices deliver a shock upon direct skin contact to achieve compliance without the use of projectiles like a Taser.

The procurement has sparked significant controversy. Human rights advocates and legislators warn that the devices, described by officials as de-escalation tools, could be used for excessive force or torture. Critics note that because the gloves do not leave visible marks or burns, abuses may be difficult to document.

Beyond federal use, reports indicate that similar technology has already been deployed by school resource officers in Omaha, Nebraska, where the devices were used on students during the 2025-2026 school year. In response to these developments, California is considering legislation to regulate the use of electric-shock gloves.