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ICE acquires shock gloves and robotic dogs; CA Governor bans

Updated 11 times since CLSTR started tracking revisions of this situation.

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2026-09-08 00:11 UTC → 2026-09-29 21:33 UTC · added removed

ICE acquires shock gloves and robotic dogs; CA passes ban Governor bans

U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) has awarded a $16.7 million no-bid contract to Kentucky-based Compliant Technologies LLC to purchase 6,000 G.L.O.V.E. (Generated Low Output Voltage Emitter) gloves. While the Department of Homeland Security describes the devices as a “conductive distraction and de-escalation” tool, critics and civil rights organizations have characterized the technology as “repugnant and barbaric,” with some labeling it a form of torture. Concerns regarding the gloves center on their ability to induce muscle spasms or collapse without leaving visible marks, as well as manufacturer documentation noting they can amplify effects leading to sudden death. In response to the acquisition, California lawmakers passed Assembly Bill 2760, which bans Governor Gavin Newsom has signed legislation banning the use and possession of electric shock electroshock gloves by state local, state, and local federal law enforcement agencies officers within the state. The ban, which takes effect next year, will remain in place until 2030. Proponents of the ban, including State Assemblymember LaShae Sharp-Collins, cited safety concerns and referenced a 2024 incident in Kentucky where a man died after being struck repeatedly by electroshock devices. The legislation also seeks to prevent California police departments from using state funds Department of Justice is now required to purchase such study the safety of these devices and aims submit a report to restrict the hiring of former legislature by 2029. Legal experts note the ban may face challenges regarding its authority over federal immigration agents due to limit federal enforcement tactics within the state. Supremacy Clause of the U.S. Constitution. Alongside the glove acquisition, ICE is planning to invest up to $2 million in Spot robotic dogs from Boston Dynamics. These robots are intended Dynamics for inspections in hazardous or difficult-to-access environments to enhance officer safety. According to Department of Homeland Security acquisition documents, the quadrupeds will be used for inspection, situational awareness, and risk assessment in dangerous or unstable areas. The robots are equipped with 360-degree cameras and sensors for detecting radiation, gases, and vibrations. A Department of Homeland Security official confirmed that the robots will not be used to perform arrests. environments. The procurement process is expected to begin in early September, with completion projected be completed by April 2027.

Versions

  1. 2026-09-29 21:33 UTC ICE acquires shock gloves and robotic dogs; CA Governor bans
  2. 2026-09-08 00:11 UTC ICE acquires shock gloves and robotic dogs; CA passes ban
  3. 2026-09-01 19:14 UTC ICE acquires shock gloves and robotic dogs; CA passes ban
  4. 2026-08-28 23:06 UTC ICE acquisition of electric shock gloves
  5. 2026-08-28 13:02 UTC ICE acquisition of electric shock gloves
  6. 2026-08-27 23:42 UTC ICE acquisition of electric shock gloves
  7. 2026-08-24 12:13 UTC ICE acquisition of electric shock gloves
  8. 2026-08-23 10:08 UTC ICE acquisition of electric shock gloves
  9. 2026-08-21 02:47 UTC ICE acquisition of electric shock gloves
  10. 2026-08-19 22:46 UTC ICE acquisition of electric shock gloves
  11. 2026-08-18 01:52 UTC ICE acquisition of electric shock gloves
  12. 2026-08-16 09:35 UTC ICE acquisition of electric shock gloves

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