[REVISION HISTORY]

ICE acquisition of electric shock gloves

Updated 1 time since CLSTR started tracking revisions of this situation.

What changed

2026-08-16 09:35 UTC → 2026-08-18 01:52 UTC · added ~~removed~~

U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) has announced plans to spend between $10 million and $20 million to acquire G.L.O.V.E. (Generated Low Output Voltage Emitter) gloves, manufactured by Compliant Technologies LLC. These devices are designed to deliver a low-voltage electrical discharge—up to 380 volts—to induce pain compliance and inhibit muscle mobility. The manufacturer describes them as a “Conductive Distraction and De-escalation Device” that does not cause falls or visible marks, though usage is advised against for minors, the elderly, pregnant women, or individuals with severe disabilities. Border official Tom Homan defended the acquisition, stating the gloves serve as a non-lethal intermediary step to encourage compliance without immediately resorting to deadly force. The proposal has faced significant opposition from Democratic lawmakers, civil rights organizations, and the National Immigration Law Center, which described the move as “repugnant and barbaric.” Critics have raised concerns regarding potential abuses, lack of accountability, and the necessity of the ~~expenditure.~~ expenditure, noting that such tools may be difficult for witnesses or cameras to detect. In a related development, ICE is proposing a plan to subsidize liability insurance for state and local officers participating in 287(g) partnerships. Under this proposal, officers would purchase personal liability coverage of up to $500,000, with ICE providing annual reimbursements of up to $250. The Cato Institute and other critics have expressed concern that this program could allow local officers to avoid personal accountability for misconduct while assisting in federal immigration enforcement.

Versions

Only revisions since CLSTR began indexing content versions appear here. Select a version to see what changed compared to the one before it.