The U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) has approved a $16.7 million contract to buy 6,000 pairs of gloves capable of administering electric shocks for controlling detainees and protesters who resist. Despite objections from civil rights advocates and Democratic lawmakers, ICE proceeded with the purchase, citing the need for these “conductive distraction and de-escalation devices.” The procurement was made through a no-bid contract with Compliant Technologies LLC, a company based in Kentucky. The contract includes the acquisition of 6,000 devices and related equipment and services over the next six months.
Critics have raised concerns about ICE’s use of force and lack of oversight, particularly in light of recent incidents involving fatalities during interactions with ICE and Customs and Border Protection (CBP). ICE has scaled back high-profile deportation operations in response to public outcry following fatal shootings earlier this year. Despite setting a record for monthly arrests, data shows that a significant portion of those detained had no criminal convictions or charges.
Following public backlash, a group of senators, led by Democrat Catherine Cortez Masto, urged ICE to reconsider the purchase of the shock gloves. The senators questioned the necessity and potential risks associated with deploying such devices without proper safeguards and oversight. ICE defended its decision, emphasizing the gloves’ intended use in high-stress situations like arrests, detainee transport, and managing civil disturbances.
The electric shock gloves, which appear as regular patrol gloves until activated, are designed to deliver pain compliance to individuals who resist authority. ICE stated that the gloves would help officers maintain control over detainees, prevent aggression, and aid in crowd control. However, concerns persist about the potential misuse of these devices and the need for clear guidelines and training for their deployment.
In response to criticisms, the Department of Homeland Security, ICE’s parent agency, condemned the backlash as an attempt to undermine officer safety. This contract is part of a series of no-bid contracts issued by the Trump administration, drawing scrutiny from Democrats for lack of transparency and accountability. Similar practices have been observed in other government contracts related to transportation, detention facilities, and public infrastructure projects.
