# ICE deployment of electric shock gloves

> Live situation record from CLSTR: https://clstr.news/situations/ice-deployment-of-electric-shock-gloves
> Updated: 2026-10-09T14:00:00.000Z. Sources: 18. Developments: 2.

Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) has faced scrutiny following the purchase of 6,000 electric shock gloves in an August contract valued at over $16 million. Reports indicate that ICE leadership was aware of a 2024 U.S. Army study conducted at Fort Leavenworth prior to the purchase.

The study revealed that the devices, which can deliver up to 380 volts, cause intense pain, fatigue, and soreness. It also noted that the mere sight of the gloves was sufficient to induce compliance through psychological fear. 

While ICE defends the equipment as “distraction and de-escalation devices” intended to provide a safer alternative to lethal force, critics argue they are tools for intimidation. Concerns have been raised that the gloves leave no visible marks, potentially hindering victims' ability to seek recourse. Reports have already surfaced regarding the use of these gloves on students in an Omaha school district.

## Timeline

### 2026-10-09: ICE purchases $16M in electric gloves despite Army study findings

An Army study found that electric gloves used by ICE cause significant pain and fear, yet the agency spent $16 million to acquire 6,000 units for its agents.

7 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/ice-purchases-16m-in-electric-gloves-despite-army-study-findings

### 2026-10-06: ICE shock gloves cause intense pain and fear, Army study reveals

An unreleased Army study shows that ICE's new $16.7 million shock gloves cause intense pain and fear, despite agency claims that they are safer de-escalation tools for controlling detainees.

11 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/ice-electric-shock-gloves-cause-intense-pain-and-fear-army-study-finds

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Cite as: ICE deployment of electric shock gloves. CLSTR, https://clstr.news/situations/ice-deployment-of-electric-shock-gloves