A city in Massachusetts has decided to discontinue its use of ShotSpotter, a system designed to detect gunshots in real time. The city council voted to terminate the contract, responding to criticism about the technology’s reliability and concerns about its links to federal immigration enforcement.
ShotSpotter employs acoustic sensors that detect gunfire-like sounds and alert law enforcement. Critics argue the system may contribute to over-policing and highlight reported instances of false positives, where loud noises like car backfires are mistaken for gunfire.
Cambridge’s move aligns with Chicago’s earlier decision to not renew ShotSpotter’s contract. Across the nation, there is increasing skepticism about the system.
“It does pose a privacy and safety risk for residents,” said Councilor Ayah Al-Zubi, co-sponsor of the resolution.
Despite support from Cambridge’s City Manager and acting Police Commissioner, who noted incidents where gunfire was detected without associated 911 calls, the council voted to phase out ShotSpotter use within 90 days.
Soundthinking, the company behind ShotSpotter, defended its technology’s effectiveness and commitment to public safety. The firm stated that its tool is designed to aid faster police response and preserve privacy while combating gun violence.
As cities evaluate the balance between safety and privacy, the debate over technology like ShotSpotter continues.