The administration of US President Donald Trump is planning to spend between $10 million and $20 million to equip federal immigration officers with gloves capable of delivering electric shocks.
The US Department of Homeland Security (DHS) said the purchase could be completed by March 2027, with the gloves intended for use by officers working under Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE).
The devices, known as CT-G5 G.L.O.V.E., are manufactured by Compliant Technologies. The company says the gloves deliver short electrical pulses designed to distract individuals and help officers de-escalate confrontations.
According to the manufacturer's manual, the gloves can deliver up to 380 volts, which can interfere with a person's coordinated muscle movement.
DHS says the gloves would be used for “distraction and de-escalation.” However, the proposed purchase has drawn strong criticism from human rights and immigration advocates, who fear the devices could be used against protesters, immigrants and people in government custody.
ICE has faced growing criticism over allegations of racial profiling and excessive use of force as the Trump administration expands its mass-deportation campaign.
The National Immigration Law Center (NILC) condemned the planned purchase, arguing that giving immigration officers electric-shock equipment could increase the risk of violence against vulnerable communities.
The manufacturer maintains that the technology is safe and does not cause injury because the electrical current does not penetrate the body. However, Compliant Technologies advises against using the gloves on higher-risk individuals, including elderly people, young children, pregnant people and those with severe disabilities.
Officers are also required to complete training before using the devices and must be recertified every two years.
The proposed purchase is listed as a no-bid contract, and the official notice could be published by Friday.
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