Analysis of ShotSpotter System Utilization and Effectiveness

This special report evaluates the utilization, effectiveness, and cost-efficiency of the ShotSpotter gunshot detection program in Pittsburgh. The analysis is structured around three key perspectives: the Pittsburgh Police Bureau (PBP), neighborhood residents, and the City budget. The report outlines the objectives of the ShotSpotter system, which include providing fast alerts of gunfire, enabling strategic emergency response, and assisting in locating victims and suspects. The auditors reviewed historical data on crime incidents and gunfire alerts to assess the system's performance. The findings indicate that ShotSpotter alerts are as productive as 911 calls, with a noted 50% decrease in 911 calls since its deployment. Additionally, police response times to gunfire alerts are significantly faster when using ShotSpotter compared to traditional 911 calls. The report also discusses the financial implications of the program, which has cost the City approximately $8.48 million, and examines the system's overall impact on gun violence detection and community safety.