U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) has announced plans to equip its officers with gloves capable of delivering electric shocks, according to a procurement document posted on the federal government's contracting website. The agency intends to spend between $10 million and $20 million on the devices, which are designed to "gain compliance from combative individuals."
The gloves, described as "electronically enabled" and capable of delivering a "painful but non-lethal" shock, would be used in situations where verbal commands fail. The document, first reported by The Intercept, specifies that the gloves must be lightweight, flexible, and able to administer a shock through clothing.
Civil liberties groups have expressed concern over the potential for abuse and the lack of public oversight. The American Civil Liberties Union (ACLU) has criticized the move, stating that such technology could escalate encounters and violate individuals' rights. ICE has not yet responded to requests for comment, and the timeline for procurement remains unclear.
This proposal comes amid ongoing debates about the use of force by federal law enforcement agencies. ICE has stated that the gloves would be optional equipment for officers, but critics argue that their availability could lead to overuse.
