For fallout 3 can you equip items to your slaves

The only ways to do this is to use the 'reverse-pickpocketing' tactic or you could equip clothing when you have used the Mesmetron on the slave, and put the items into the inventory when you loot their inventory (items you wish for them to equip must have higher DR stats than their current weapon/apparel, or they will keep their original gear equipped).