What Are Shock Gloves And Will They Ever Be Used In Sioux Falls?

Imagine a pair of gloves that look like something you might find in a James Bond movie, but instead of helping you keep your hands in the middle of winter, they can deliver an electrical shock.

That’s the idea behind so-called “shock gloves,” officially known as Generated Low-Output Voltage Emitters. And while they may sound like something you would find in a sci-fi movie, they are becoming a real buzz topic of conversation in law enforcement communities.

According to a recent report from Dakota News Now, U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) has expressed interest in obtaining the gloves as another tool for officers when attempting to apprehend suspects.

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The gloves are manufactured by Compliant Technologies, a Kentucky-based company. Unlike a traditional Taser, the gloves are designed to deliver a lower-voltage electrical shock. The company says the gloves can emit up to 380 volts, or roughly one-fourth the voltage associated with a Taser.

What exactly happens when someone gets shocked by one?

The gloves are designed to make contact with the skin and stimulate sensory nerves, potentially disrupting a person's ability to focus long enough for an officer to gain control of the situation. Supporters argue that because the gloves deliver less voltage than a Taser, they could provide officers with another option when dealing with someone who is resisting arrest or becoming physically aggressive.

But, as you might imagine, some people find the idea of electric shock gloves being used by law enforcement to be shocking, and it is creating plenty of controversy.

The issue has gotten particularly close to home for South Dakotans. Dakota News Now reports that school resource officers in Omaha, Nebraska, have reportedly been equipped with the gloves, and their use has sparked strong reactions from parents, residents, and members of the Omaha school board.

Omaha police officials, however, have defended the gloves as another resource for officers. They argue that the devices could offer a less impactful alternative to a Taser when dealing with a violent student.

Could we eventually see Sioux Falls police officers wearing shock gloves?

Dakota News Now recently put that question directly to the Sioux Falls Police Department.

The answer, at least for now, is no.

Sioux Falls Police Public Information Officer Aaron Benson said the department currently has no plans to purchase shock gloves at this time.

For now, if you see a Sioux Falls police officer reaching for a pair of gloves, they'll be the regular kind, you know, the ones that help keep your hands warm during the 20-below wind chills of January and February here in South Dakota. Unfortunately, the need for those types of gloves will be back before you know it!

10 Most Dangerous Cities in South Dakota

Cities on the east and west side of the Missouri River have made the latest list of South Dakota's Most Dangerous Cities for 2021.

Roadsnacks recently released its most 'Dangerous Cities' list and here in The Mount Rushmore state there are a few surprises, especially at the top. To determine the most dangerous cities in the state, Roadsnacks looked at the FBI's report on the latest violent crime, along with property crime statistics.

And surprisingly, the town with the most murders per capita in the state has less than 3,000 residents. Take a look at the list below.

For a look at the detailed list, visit roadsnacks.com Story Source: Roadsncaks