Detroit Police say a technology known as “Shot Spotter” would help the department’s battle against gun violence.
The department wants to use $2.6 million in federal money to pilot the gunshot-sensing technology system.
Police Chief Ralph Godbee says it would be an invaluable tool in locating shots fired, and deploying officers quickly.
But City Council members, who must approve the project, were skeptical. Councilman Gary Brown questions Shot Spotter’s effectiveness—especially since it won’t include video.
“According to the Department of Justice, this is an expensive piece of equipment for…the value that you get out of it,” Brown says.
Brown also suggested the department doesn’t have enough manpower to respond to all detected gunshots.
The Council delayed a vote on the issue until next week.