Washington, DC — U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement agreed to buy 6,000 pairs of electric shock gloves for $16.7 million after an Army study found the devices caused intense pain, immediate compliance and fear of being shocked again.
The 2024 Army study, conducted at Fort Leavenworth, Kansas, found participants quickly stopped resisting after exposure to the gloves. Some later reported fatigue, soreness and significant apprehension about receiving another shock. ICE officials were aware of the findings before signing the contract in August.
ICE describes the devices as nonlethal “distraction and de-escalation” tools intended to help officers control resisting detainees without resorting to more dangerous force. The manufacturer’s guidance says the gloves should not be used as punishment or merely for verbal defiance and warns against use on some vulnerable populations.
Sixteen senators led by Catherine Cortez Masto previously urged ICE to cancel the purchase or provide detailed safeguards covering training, medical risks and accountability. The senators said the agency had not answered their August letter as of this week.
White House border czar Tom Homan has said deployment could still take time while ICE develops training and use policies. The contract requires delivery within six months.
Sources:
Discover more from News Facts Network
Subscribe to get the latest posts sent to your email.
