Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) officers may soon be equipped with gloves that can deliver painful electric shocks to gain compliance from combative individuals. The gloves, known as the G.L.O.V.E. (Generated Low Output Voltage Emitter), are manufactured by Compliant Technologies LLC of Lexington, Kentucky.
Concerns Over Use of Force
Civil rights advocates have expressed alarm over the plan, citing concerns that ICE officers already face criticism for their use of force with little oversight or accountability. The use of these gloves has been defended by some as a means to de-escalate situations and prevent injuries to both officers and individuals.
The G.L.O.V.E. device functions as a normal pair of patrol gloves until officers press a switch to activate their electrical mode. The gloves must be applied directly to someone’s skin to deliver a pain stimulus that typically helps an officer gain compliance within seconds. The manufacturer warns that the device should not be used as punishment or against people exhibiting verbal defiance or belligerence.
Training and Oversight
To use the device, officers must complete a course and be recertified every two years. The manufacturer emphasizes the importance of robust policies and training in place to ensure the device is used appropriately.
Original reporting: Texarkana Gazette — read the source article.
