Situation
Prior to the installation of SoundThinking’s ShotSpotter gunshot detection system, the Harris County Sheriff’s Office struggled to gather evidence in response to calls of shots fired, particularly in large outdoor areas. Furthermore, callers concerned about potential ramifications often didn’t want to talk to police when they arrived on the scene. This, in combination with the startling fact that over 80% of gunfire incidents are never reported in the first place, meant that a significant amount of evidence was left undetected, leaving offenders at large to commit more crimes.
Results
After Harris County implemented ShotSpotter as part of a pilot program, Sheriff’s Office Deputies were able to respond to calls faster and with greater situational awareness.
2,194
Casings located
40
Guns seized
135
NIBIN leads
* Stats from the first year of the ShotSpotter pilot program, May 2021-May 2022
ShotSpotter technology has proven to be incredible… it triangulates [the sound of gunshots] and allows law enforcement to arrive faster. We know these are tough times and obviously we are all paying attention to the concerns of many and especially the victims of crime. ShotSpotter is a valuable public safety law enforcement tool, and we will continue to use it.
Learn more about ShotSpotter’s impact in West Palm Beach here.
