ICE has used full body restraints known as “the WRAP” during deportations in 2025 under the Trump administration, and documentation shows its use dates back several years—at least to 2020, with widespread adoption in law enforcement since the late 1990s.
The WRAP is a black-and-yellow restraint suit that immobilizes individuals by securing their legs, upper body, and ankles, sometimes with a ring for handcuffs; it was first developed as an alternative to hog-tying and is now used by over 1,800 institutions nationwide. [1][2][3][4][5]
| Aspect | Description/Status (2025) |
|---|---|
| Device | WRAP full body restraint suit [3][4] |
| First Adoption | Law enforcement since 1990s; ICE use since at least 2015 [3][4] |
| Use in 2025 | Yes, including on deportation flights; multiple instances [1][2][3][5] |
| Justification | “Fight risk” on long flights; safety for officers/detainees [6][3] |
| Physical Effects | Bruising, loss of circulation, respiratory issues, death [3][9] |
| Psychological Effects | Trauma, PTSD, depression, fear, humiliation [9][10] |
| Use on Minors | No confirmed cases; ICE allows handcuffs “as appropriate” [12][13] |
In summary, ICE has substantially increased its use of the WRAP full-body restraint in 2025 under the Trump administration, primarily for adult deportees alleged to pose a resistance or aggression risk.
The physical and psychological consequences reported are severe, with calls for further oversight and federal lawsuits challenging its application. There is currently no confirmation of use on minors, though related practices remain controversial.[8][5][13][3][12]