Denver officials have told the City Council that no ShotSpotter replacement is lined up for when the current gunshot detection technology contract expires in December. The city isn’t planning on purchasing new gunshot detection technology or equipment next year.
ShotSpotter microphones ‘listen’ for nearby gunshots and alert the police automatically. Officials said that once the contract ends, people will need to report gunshots by calling 911.
The discussion restarts a debate on the technology, which critics have long said unfairly targets low-income communities and communities of color. It also comes as people voice privacy concerns over Flock cameras and automated license plate readers. Denver ended its Flock contract in March, signing with Axon for fewer cameras and a shorter data-retention period.