ICE plans $20 million purchase of electric shock gloves

The U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) intends to acquire thousands of G.L.O.V.E. devices, a significant investment of $10 million to $20 million, with a planned procurement by March 2027. These gloves, manufactured by Compliant Technologies, are described as "Generated Low Output Voltage Emitters" (G.L.O.V.E.) and utilize a technology called CD3 (Conductive Distraction and De-escalation Device).

The manufacturer asserts that the G.L.O.V.E. system is not a weapon, as it delivers localized, low-voltage electrical impulses that cause discomfort upon direct skin contact. The current is reportedly too low to penetrate clothing, hair, metal, or leather. When applied to exposed skin, the device sends signals that interfere with the peripheral nervous system, reaching the spinal cord and brain. This "neuroperipheral interference" is designed to elicit obedience within three seconds without causing burns, marks, or scars, according to the company.

Despite the manufacturer's claims, civil rights organizations have voiced apprehension regarding the potential deployment of these devices by immigration officers. These concerns are amplified by past criticisms leveled against ICE concerning its use of force and oversight issues, particularly during the Trump administration. The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) is expected to post a solicitation for the contract soon, though the founder of Compliant Technologies declined to comment to the Associated Press.