Since 2007, the Boston police have been utilizing ShotSpotter technology to quickly identify the location and timing of gunshots. This innovative technology, developed by SoundThinking, involves strategically placed acoustic sensors throughout the city that detect gunfire. The company claims that these sensors allow law enforcement officials to respond promptly to shootings even if no one calls 911.
However, with Boston’s ShotSpotter contract set to expire in June, the ACLU of Massachusetts has released a new report questioning the reliability of the technology. According to their analysis of over 1,300 Boston police reports, nearly 70% of ShotSpotter alerts did not lead to any evidence of shots being fired. The Technology for Liberty Project at the ACLU of Massachusetts and SoundThinking’s senior vice president of Analytics and Forensic Services, Tom Chittum, are scheduled to discuss the role and impacts of ShotSpotter in Boston.
To stay informed on this issue, individuals can subscribe to GBH’s YouTube channel or follow GBH News on Instagram, Facebook, Twitter, and Mastodon for more information and updates.