The introduction of electric shock gloves for U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) has stirred controversy. These devices, designed to control detainees and protesters, demonstrated a strong impact during a military exercise. Participants reported severe discomfort, ceased resistance quickly, and developed fear of future exposure. This finding comes from a previously undisclosed Army study obtained by the watchdog group American Oversight.
ICE signed a $16.7 million contract in August for 6,000 pairs of these gloves, aware of their intense effects. The study involved Army personnel simulating combative prisoners at Fort Leavenworth in October 2024. Large-statured participants stopped resisting soon after contact, experiencing fatigue and soreness. The gloves’ presence alone became a deterrent, the study noted.
“After experiencing the effects of the GLOVE… participants stated just seeing the GLOVE was enough to make them want to comply,” the report stated.
Safety Concerns and Critics
ICE describes the gloves as tools for distraction and de-escalation, asserting they are safer than other non-lethal options. The agency argues they ensure officer safety and prevent the need for potentially lethal force. However, critics argue these gloves may be used to intimidate people and question their safety.
Chioma Chukwu, executive director of American Oversight, expressed alarm. She stated that while the gloves cause intense pain and compliance, their safety remains unproven. Critics also highlight the lack of testing outside incarceration settings and potential misuse with vulnerable populations.
Military Study Findings
The Army study assessed the gloves in various scenarios, such as forced removals and disturbances. The devices enhanced team efficiency and reduced physical encounter length. They did not significantly affect escort control time but required less effort. The shock operates by overwhelming peripheral nerve endings, causing pain rather than immobilization like Tasers.
Participants with wet or oily skin reported greater pain, with one experiencing discomfort for up to 30 minutes afterward. The study emphasized the gloves’ effectiveness in promoting immediate compliance.
Political and Public Reactions
The contract requires delivery of the gloves by Compliant Technologies LLC within six months. The gloves, priced at $2,495 each, come with specific usage instructions, recommending up to 15 seconds of application unless the subject becomes more violent.
ICE’s rollout faces scrutiny. Senator Catherine Cortez Masto of Nevada, along with 15 Democratic senators, demanded ICE abandon the plan or clarify usage management to prevent abuse. ICE has yet to respond satisfactorily.
The Department of Homeland Security defends the purchase, accusing critics of undermining officer safety. DHS claims every decision regarding law enforcement tools undergoes careful consideration and review to ensure consistency with applicable policies.