A group of Democratic senators is calling on U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) to cancel a plan to equip officers with electric shock gloves. The senators, led by Sen. Catherine Cortez Masto of Nevada, expressed concerns about the agency's capacity to use the devices safely and the necessity of the proposed $20 million purchase.
In a letter sent Thursday to ICE's acting director, Cortez Masto and 15 other Democrats, joined by independent Sen. Angus King of Maine, questioned the agency's rationale for acquiring thousands of what ICE describes as "conductive distraction and de-escalation devices." The senators pointed to instances of alleged excessive force by law enforcement nationwide, suggesting these incidents raise doubts about ICE's ability to deploy such a tool without causing harm.
The gloves are designed to function as standard patrol gloves until activated by a button, at which point they can deliver an electric shock when applied to skin. ICE has stated the devices are intended to gain compliance from individuals resisting arrest, potentially as an alternative to lethal force, especially in detention settings. Some local jails and police departments have reportedly used similar devices.
Senators argued that the gloves pose significant risks, particularly if used during civil arrests without clear limitations, adequate training, and thorough oversight. They urged ICE to publicly share details regarding officer training protocols and the procedures for documenting and reviewing the use of the gloves to prevent misuse.
White House border czar Tom Homan has previously supported the use of such devices, stating they could be effective in detention facilities and offer a less-lethal option. He has indicated that the deployment of the gloves is still months away as ICE finalizes training and policy guidelines.