Final Results of NIJ’s Evaluation of Gunshot Detection Technology: Implementation, Impact, and Cost

Session Submission Type: Complete Thematic Panel

Abstract

In recent decades, scores of police departments have implemented Gunshot Detection Technology (GDT) to better assess where and when firearm violence occurs. With the implementation of GDT, departments may be capable of assessing firearm violence with more reliable data, thus allowing for more appropriate and cost-effective responses. With funding from the National Institute of Justice, the Urban Institute conducted a 36-month evaluation on police departments’ use of GDT in three cities: Denver, CO; Milwaukee, WI; and Richmond, CA. These sites were selected for their diversity in size, resources, and geographic location. Each site implemented the ShotSpotter, Inc. GDT at varying points in time. This panel will present findings on methods to successfully implement a GDT; the impact on operations, crimes, and calls for service; and assessments on whether GDT’s benefits exceed its costs.

Sub Unit

• Area V. Correlates of Crime / 23. Weapons

Individual Presentations

• Strategies and Challenges to Effective Gunshot Detection Technology Deployment: Results from Community Focus Groups and Stakeholder Interviews - Margaret Goff, Urban Institute; Carla Vasquez-Noriega, Urban Institute; Daniel S. Lawrence, Urban Institute; Nancy La Vigne, Urban Institute; Dean Obermark, Urban Institute

• The Effect of Gunshot Detection Technology on Crimes and Calls for Service - Daniel S. Lawrence, Urban Institute; Dean Obermark, Urban Institute; Nancy La Vigne, Urban Institute; Margaret Goff, Urban Institute; Carla Vasquez-Noriega, Urban Institute

• The Costs and Benefits of Gunshot Detection Technology: Results from Three Cities - Dean Obermark, Urban Institute; Nancy La Vigne, Urban Institute; Daniel S. Lawrence, Urban Institute; Margaret Goff, Urban Institute; Carla Vasquez-Noriega, Urban Institute

Chair

• Nancy La Vigne, Urban Institute