US Immigration and Customs Enforcement plans to spend up to $20 million by March on electrically powered “shock gloves”, a non-lethal restraint device intended to subdue people through localised pain. The purchase has drawn attention to how the equipment works, its intended safeguards and the distinction between the gloves and Tasers or stun guns, which can incapacitate muscles more broadly.

Known as GLOVE (Generated Low Output Voltage Emitter), the device uses conductive pads in the palm and fingers to send high-frequency pulses into skin after an officer activates it from the wrist. Its manufacturer says the pulses disrupt sensory nerves, prompting compliance in under three seconds without burns or lasting marks; versions operate at up to 380 volts and record activation data in later models. Manuals restrict use to trained, certified professionals, advise against continuous shocks exceeding 15 seconds, and state that no more than one pair should be used on one person at once.