Full Breakdown
Immigrations and Customs Enforcement (ICE) to Acquire $20 Million of Electric-Shock Gloves
8/12/2026, 11:37:40 AM
Core Procurement Plan
The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) issued a notice that ICE will spend up to $20 million to purchase thousands of “conductive distraction and de-escalation devices” known as G.L.O.V.E. (Generated Low Output Voltage Emitter) by March. The gloves are manufactured by Compliant Technologies LLC of Lexington, Kentucky.
Background & Context
G.L.O.V.E. gloves have previously been deployed in U.S. jails and by a handful of police departments as a low-optics alternative to tasers. The procurement comes amid intensified scrutiny of ICE’s use-of-force practices during President Donald Trump’s immigration crackdown.
Data & Statistics
- The device delivers up to 380 volts when its pads contact skin; the charge does not penetrate clothing.
- The manufacturer claims the stimulus produces compliance in less than three seconds and leaves no burns, marks or scars.
- Officers must complete a training course and be recertified every two years to use the gloves.
Official Statements & Responses
- DHS has not provided detailed comment, noting it is preparing a response to media inquiries.
- Compliant Technologies describes the glove as a “humane, low-optics, de-escalation solution,” emphasizing that it is not a weapon and warning against use on children, pregnant women, the elderly or disabled.
- ICE has not issued a public statement; the procurement notice indicates the agency expects the gloves to help officers when faced with resistance during vehicle stops, home entries, and detention-facility transfers.
Conflicting Reports & Gaps
- Cost estimates differ: some outlets report a budget range of $10 million to $20 million, while others cite a flat $20 million allocation.
- No agency spokesperson has confirmed the exact quantity of gloves to be bought or provided detailed operational guidelines beyond the manufacturer’s general warnings.
Verbatim Quotes
- “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
- “For smaller officers or weaker officers or older officers, I think it has a great advantage,” — John Peters, president of the Institute for the Prevention of In-Custody Deaths
- “It’s immediate and sharp, and it will distract you. I call it like a bee sting. If the officer is getting any type of resistance from the person, this is certainly an effective tool…,” — John Peters, president of the Institute for the Prevention of In-Custody Deaths
- “The discomfort associated with the stimulation is usually effective in bringing individuals into compliance in less than three seconds and leaves no burns, marks or scars,” — Compliant Technologies, founder and CEO
What’s Next
The solicitation for a no-bid contract could be published as early as the upcoming Friday, with delivery slated for March. No further policy details have been released, and civil-rights groups have said they will monitor the rollout closely.
