Story perspectives

Omaha Schools Stop Using Shock Gloves After Order

8/21/2026

Summary

Story summary

Superintendent Matthew Ray ordered police to stop using electric shock gloves in Omaha schools.
Mayor John Ewing Jr. and Police Chief Todd Schmaderer said department will honor the opt-out.
Omaha police paid Compliant Technologies LLC about $66,000 for 40 G.L.O.V.E. gloves in 2025.
A glove activation stopped a high-school student fleeing a fight and shocked a special-education student who threatened a guard.

History

Historical Context

In 1999 Taser International introduced a handheld model, and the NYPD bought 1,200 units for $1.2 million, with Mayor Rudy Giuliani touting it as a safety upgrade. The early controversy spurred broader scrutiny, and in 2025 Omaha Superintendent Matthew Ray halted use of electric-shock gloves after the department spent $66,000 on 40 G.L.O.V.E. units. These actions reflect a decade-long shift toward stricter oversight of less-lethal conducted-energy weapons.

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Story summary

Superintendent Matthew Ray ordered police to stop using electric shock gloves in Omaha schools.
Mayor John Ewing Jr. and Police Chief Todd Schmaderer said department will honor the opt-out.
Omaha police paid Compliant Technologies LLC about $66,000 for 40 G.L.O.V.E. gloves in 2025.
A glove activation stopped a high-school student fleeing a fight and shocked a special-education student who threatened a guard.

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