ICE plans to purchase stun gloves worth up to $20 million
U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) plans to spend up to $20 million on the purchase of GLOVE gloves capable of delivering an electric shock during law enforcement operations. This was reported by BBC News, citing a statement from the U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS).
The device’s name stands for Generated Low Output Voltage Emitter. The gloves can deliver up to 380 volts—roughly three times the voltage of a standard U.S. electrical outlet. The electric shock is activated by pressing a button, and the device is capable of generating up to 30 pulses per second. A built-in microprocessor records each activation of the device.
The DHS stated that ICE continuously assesses the needs of its employees to ensure they are equipped to safely detain and deport individuals who violate immigration laws. The agency also noted that the use of these technologies is reviewed for compliance with applicable law enforcement rules and standards.
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According to DHS, the gloves will be provided to personnel in the Homeland Security Investigations division, which combats transnational criminal organizations, as well as to Enforcement and Removal Operations. The latter is responsible for the apprehension, detention, and deportation of individuals who violate U.S. immigration laws. The no-bid procurement contract may be announced as early as Friday.
The manufacturer’s instructions state that the device must come into contact with human skin but can function through thin, wet clothing. The document recommends avoiding the use of electric shocks on the elderly, young children, pregnant women, and people with severe disabilities. The instructions also advise that when using the device, another officer should be present to restrain the person. Users must undergo training and recertification every two years.
The American Civil Liberties Union (ACLU) has criticized the potential equipping of immigration agents with such devices. The organization’s deputy director for policing, Jenn Rolnik Borchetta, stated that a concealed device designed to inflict pain could cause greater harm to the public and reduce agents’ accountability.
