U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) plans to purchase gloves capable of delivering electric shocks to assist officers in gaining compliance from individuals. The agency intends to spend up to $20 million on these devices, known as G.L.O.V.E. (Generated Low Output Voltage Emitter), manufactured by Compliant Technologies LLC. The purchase is expected to be finalized by March, with a solicitation for a no-bid contract potentially published as early as Friday.
The gloves function as standard patrol gloves until activated, delivering a pain stimulus when applied to the skin. Civil rights advocates have raised concerns regarding the potential for misuse, citing existing criticisms of ICE's use of force. Jeff Niklaus, CEO of Compliant Technologies, declined to comment further on the devices.
John Peters, president of the Institute for the Prevention of In-Custody Deaths, described the shock as similar to a bee sting, suggesting it could aid officers in managing resistant individuals. He noted that the planned purchase could be the largest for the company to date. The manufacturer advises against using the gloves on vulnerable populations or for mere verbal defiance.
Jenn Rolnick Borchetta from the American Civil Liberties Union expressed skepticism about the appropriate use of the devices by ICE officers, emphasizing the potential for harm in civil immigration enforcement scenarios. Supporters of the devices argue they are intended for specific situations, such as controlling violent suspects or inmates. The manufacturer states that officers must undergo training and recertification to use the gloves.