Cincinnati’s Innovative ShotSpotter Technology: A Game Changer in Combating Gun Violence

Americans are reevaluating the concept of public safety, increasingly demanding law enforcement accountability, especially in Black communities. As African American men cognizant of unjust policing history, we are encouraged by the reforms underway. However, gun violence continues to plague our neighborhoods.We propose incorporating Acoustic Gunshot Detection Systems (AGDS) into policing strategies in Cincinnati. ShotSpotter, a leader in AGDS technology, employs a network of sensors to detect gunfire, alerting police typically within 60 seconds when a shot is fired. Given that approximately 80% of gun incidents go unreported, this technology proves essential. In Ohio, Black residents face alarmingly high firearm homicide rates, underscored by ShotSpotter's effectiveness—demonstrated by substantial crime reductions in areas utilizing this system. Saving lives must remain our priority.