Watch: Why are ICE agents getting controversial shock gloves?

August 12, 2026

US Immigration and Customs Enforcement is planning a significant investment of up to $20 million to purchase specialized electric shock gloves for its officers. These Generated Low Output Voltage Emitter (GLOVE) devices are capable of delivering 380 volts of electricity, which is approximately three times the electrical charge found in a typical American household outlet. The equipment acquisition is happening amid heightened tensions surrounding immigration enforcement activities in the United States.

Who is affected

US Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) officers
Critics of the enforcement agency
Members of the public who may encounter ICE officers during enforcement activities

What action is being taken

ICE is planning to spend up to $20 million to purchase the shock gloves
ICE officers will soon be equipped with these gloves to use during law enforcement duties

Why it matters

This matters because the introduction of shock gloves capable of delivering 380 volts represents a significant escalation in the force capabilities available to immigration enforcement officers. The equipment raises concerns about potential increased harm to individuals encountered during immigration enforcement and reduced accountability, occurring during a period when immigration enforcement tensions are already escalating.

What's next

No explicit next steps stated in the article

Read full article from source: BBC