A Synthesis of the Emerging Literature on Gunshot Detection Technology

• In Event: Utility of Gunshot Detection Technology in Exploring Crime Trends and Their Impact

Abstract

Common sources of crime data, such as reported crimes and citizen calls for service, have a number of issues that limit their ability to present a complete picture of crime. These limitations underscore the need for data that can enhance our understanding of the prevalence of various crime problems. Gunshot detection technology may be one such data source, offering a new metric for firearm crimes. Gunshot detection technology uses acoustic sensors to identify the sound of a gunshot and triangulate its position. This presentation presents a synthesis of the emerging literature on gunshot detection technology including: a discussion on the dark figure of crime, an overview of gunshot detection technology, and the evidence on the effectiveness of gunshot detection technology in tracking gun violence.

Authors

• Carla Vasquez-Noriega, Urban Institute

• Annie Gurvis, Urban Institute