The Trump administration may soon provide federal immigration agents with gloves capable of delivering electric shocks during physical confrontations. This comes from a Department of Homeland Security (DHS) procurement notice.
The gloves, known as G.L.O.V.E., or Generated Low Output Voltage Emitter, are produced by Compliant Technologies LLC, a company based in Kentucky. Marketed as a tool for officers to control resistant individuals during close-range encounters, these devices are seen as a method to enhance law enforcement capabilities.
Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) plans to allocate up to $20 million to procure thousands of these devices for Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) and Enforcement and Removal Operations (ERO) staff. Deliveries are anticipated by March 2027.
Newsweek reached out to DHS for commentary via email outside regular office hours.
Understanding the G.L.O.V.E. GT-5
Compliant Technologies describes the G.L.O.V.E. as a wearable “conductive distraction and de-escalation device.” It normally functions as a standard patrol glove but can be activated when needed. The device is designed for law enforcement, corrections, security, military, and emergency medical personnel.
Activation of the device is achieved through a switch on the glove. Once activated, it delivers an electrical stimulus to an individual’s skin. The intention is to distract or interrupt muscle movement and encourage compliance.
According to the company, compliance is typically achieved within seconds, and no lasting marks are left. The device is recommended to be used with no more than two gloves at a time, generally for periods not exceeding 15 seconds, unless additional force is necessary.
Note that for effectiveness, the device must make direct skin contact and will not work through clothing or hair.
Manufacturer’s Advisory
The manufacturer advises against using the gloves as punishment or solely in response to verbal noncompliance. They caution officers to refrain from using the device on certain higher-risk groups, such as children, pregnant women, seniors, and individuals with disabilities.
This is an evolving story, and further details are expected to be released soon.