Cleveland's Gunfire Detection Dilemma: Is ShotSpotter Worth the Cost?

Researchers at Cleveland State University recently conducted an in-depth study on the ShotSpotter gunshot detection system used by the Cleveland police. The study analyzed over 87,000 alerts and gathered insights from both officers and residents, revealing some key findings.

The Good and the Bad

Strengths of ShotSpotter

• Accurate Detection: The system is effective at determining when and where gunshots occur.
• Faster Response Times: Police arrive at the scene four minutes faster than if they relied solely on 911 calls.
• Unreported Gunfire Detection: It captures gunfire that might otherwise go unnoticed.

Limitations of ShotSpotter

• No Significant Crime Reduction: Despite faster response times, the system has not made a noticeable impact on crime rates.
• Strain on Police Resources: With only 1,151 officers on duty (instead of the planned 1,350), the department is already understaffed. ShotSpotter alerts are treated as top priority, diverting resources from other crimes.
• High Costs: Cleveland spends nearly $914,250 annually on ShotSpotter. The current contract is expiring, and the city may need to use its own funds to continue the service.

Potential Changes and Concerns

• Switching to Flock Safety: There is discussion about adopting a system from Flock Safety, but this has raised concerns due to a former city official now working there. City leaders want to ensure a fair and transparent process.
• Future Decisions: While ShotSpotter offers faster response times, its effectiveness and cost remain debated. Cleveland faces critical decisions about its future use.