Chicago aldermen are expressing frustration over the prolonged process of replacing ShotSpotter, a gunshot detection technology that was discontinued nearly two years ago. Mayor Brandon Johnson ended the city’s contract with ShotSpotter in September 2024, citing a need for more effective solutions. Since then, the city has been evaluating alternatives, but progress has been slow.
Concerns Over Delays
During a recent Public Safety Committee meeting, Ald. Brian Hopkins, who leads the committee, questioned the delay, emphasizing the urgency of the situation. “Every couple of weeks, someone else is shot in an area that used to be covered by ShotSpotter,” Hopkins stated. The committee is seeking transparency and a faster timeline for implementing a new system.
Sharla Roberts, the city’s chief procurement officer, provided limited information, citing the ongoing procurement process. The city received proposals from nine vendors, including SoundThinking, ShotSpotter’s parent company. However, the selection process remains incomplete.
Debate Over Effectiveness
The debate over ShotSpotter’s effectiveness continues. A University of Chicago study suggested improved police response times in areas where ShotSpotter was removed, but Hopkins criticized the study, noting that other factors could have influenced the results. Meanwhile, Ald. Pat Dowell shared an instance where ShotSpotter helped save a life in her ward, highlighting its potential benefits.
Mayor Johnson defended the thorough vetting process for new technology, aiming to avoid past mistakes. The Public Safety Committee plans to continue its hearings, urging city leadership to expedite the decision-making process.
Original reporting: Block Club Chicago — read the source article.
