US Immigration and Customs Enforcement is seeking to spend up to $20 million on specialised gloves that can deliver electric shocks, according to a Department of Homeland Security notice published on Monday.
The agency has not specified the number of devices it plans to purchase. Delivery is expected by March 2027.
The gloves named in the contract are the CTG 5 GLOVE, made by Compliant Technologies. The company describes the device as a Conductive Distraction and De-escalation tool.
The glove’s shock function is activated by a switch and can deliver up to 380 volts upon skin contact, according to its user guide.
The guide says the device can inhibit or distract a person from coordinated muscle movement. It also warns against using more than one pair on an individual, applying shocks for more than 15 seconds, or using the gloves on children and people who are elderly, pregnant or disabled.
Compliant Technologies describes the gloves as an “invisible partner” because they are not immediately identifiable as a weapon. Similar devices from the company have been used by some police departments and jails.
The Department of Homeland Security told the Associated Press it was preparing a response to questions about the planned purchase but gave no immediate comment.
Jenn Rolnick Borchetta of the American Civil Liberties Union questioned the need for the devices in civil immigration enforcement, warning that they could be used to inflict pain without others being able to see it.
