Technological approaches to controlling random gunfire: results of a gunshot detection system field test

Abstract

Using a quasi-experimental design methodology, this paper reports the results from a controlled field evaluation of the ShotSpotter gunshot location technology in Redwood City, California. Results from this field test indicate that overall, the ShotSpotter system was able to annunciate (detect) gunshots in 81 percent of the field trial events (N = 25 of 31 shooting events) and triangulate (locate) gunshots in 84 percent of the field trial events (N = 26 of 31 shooting events) within an average margin of error of 41ft. We conclude this paper with a discussion of the policy implications associated with using gunshot detection technology as a problem-solving tool to detect, reduce and prevent incidences of random gunfire.