ICE Plans to Equip Agents with Shock-Delivering Gloves

The Trump administration plans to equip federal immigration agents with gloves that can deliver electric shocks during physical confrontations. This information comes from a Department of Homeland Security (DHS) procurement notice.

These devices, called G.L.O.V.E. (Generated Low Output Voltage Emitter), are made by Compliant Technologies LLC in Kentucky. They are marketed as tools to help officers control resistant individuals during close-range encounters. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) is set to invest up to $20 million to acquire thousands of these devices for Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) and Enforcement and Removal Operations (ERO) personnel. Deliveries are expected by March 2027.

Newsweek reached out to DHS for a comment by email outside of regular working hours.

What Is the G.L.O.V.E. GT-5?

Compliant Technologies describes the G.L.O.V.E. as a conductive distraction and de-escalation device. It functions as a standard patrol glove until activated. The device is intended for use by law enforcement, corrections, security, military, and emergency medical personnel.

Officers can activate the device using a switch on the glove. It then delivers an electrical stimulus to the individual’s skin, intended to distract or interrupt muscle movement to encourage compliance. The company states that compliance is typically achieved within seconds, leaving no lasting marks.

The manufacturer advises using no more than two gloves at a time, generally for no longer than 15 seconds unless additional force is necessary. The device requires direct skin contact and is ineffective through clothing or hair.

Manufacturer’s Warnings

The manufacturer cautions that the gloves should not be used as punishment or solely in response to verbal noncompliance. Officers are also advised against using the device on certain higher-risk individuals, including children, pregnant women, the elderly, and disabled people.

This is a developing story. Further updates will be provided as information becomes available.