City Council Approves Extending ShotSpotter Contract in Detroit Through March 2027
The renewal adds $2,058,778 and keeps the gunshot detection system in use as supporters cite faster police response and critics raise privacy concerns.
- On Tuesday, the Detroit City Council voted 5-4 to extend its ShotSpotter contract through March 31, 2027, narrowly approving the nine-month renewal of the gunshot detection technology after contentious debate.
- The $2,058,778 contract extension allows the Detroit Police Department to maintain the audio surveillance system while evaluating competitive gunshot detection alternatives during this nine-month period.
- Supporters, including David Greenwood with Detroit PAL, argued the technology helps officers respond faster than traditional 911 systems and locate shooting victims in vacant areas where no emergency call was made.
- Critics, including ACLU of Michigan policy strategist Gabrielle Dresner, warned the system risks over-policing minority communities and cited insufficient performance data on arrests and victim aid outcomes.
- During this nine-month extension, the police department will test alternative gunshot detection systems as the city continues evaluating its long-term public safety strategy and competitive bidding options.
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ShotSpotter contract extension approved - BridgeDetroit
Detroit’s City Council narrowly approved a $2 million contract extension for a controversial gunshot detection software following hours of intense public comment and debate. The nine-month agreement with SoundThinking, formerly known as ShotSpotter, has sparked controversy over its cost and effectiveness. The council’s 5-4 approval will keep ShotSpotter in place through March 31, 2027, and brings overall contract costs to $9 million. Council Pre…
Detroit City Council renews ShotSpotter after emotional testimony, heated council debate
Detroit City Council narrowly approved a nine-month extension of the city’s ShotSpotter contract Tuesday after hearing emotional testimony from residents and sharp questions from some council members about the technology’s effectiveness and cost.
Detroit City Council OKs $2M ShotSpotter extension while city searches for long-term gunshot detection system
The Detroit City Council voted to extend its ShotSpotter contract by just over $2 million, giving police nine months to evaluate other gunshot detection systems before returning with a long-term recommendation.
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