AP report: ICE plans to give its officers gloves that can deliver painful electric shocks

Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) officers may soon be equipped with gloves designed to deliver electric shocks, a measure intended to gain compliance from combative individuals. The Department of Homeland Security announced plans to spend up to $20 million to acquire thousands of these "conductive distraction and de-escalation devices" by March.

The devices, called G.L.O.V.E. (Generated Low Output Voltage Emitter), are made by Compliant Technologies LLC and have seen use in some jails and police departments. ICE has not yet commented on the plan, and the manufacturer stated they are unable to speak on the subject. A no-bid contract solicitation is expected soon.

Civil rights advocates have voiced strong opposition, pointing to existing criticisms of ICE's use of force and lack of accountability. They fear the new devices could exacerbate these issues. The manufacturer notes the gloves function as normal until activated, delivering a pain stimulus to the skin that can achieve compliance within seconds.

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It's immediate and sharp, and it will distract you. I call it like a bee sting.

John Peters, president of the Institute for the Prevention of In-Custody Deaths, described the sensation as "immediate and sharp, like a bee sting," and an effective tool against resistance. He suggested ICE officers could use them for removing uncooperative individuals from vehicles, residences, and detention facilities, particularly benefiting smaller or less physically imposing officers.

However, the manufacturer warns the devices should not be used as punishment or on vulnerable populations, including children, pregnant women, or the elderly and disabled. Jenn Rolnick Borchetta of the American Civil Liberties Union expressed doubt that ICE officers would use the devices appropriately, questioning the necessity and potential for abuse.

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For smaller officers or weaker officers or older officers, I think it has a great advantage because it can produce faster takedowns and shorten confrontations.