An acoustic surveillance technology that gathers real-time data on gunshots will be implemented and tested in San Diego beginning Tuesday, according to the San Diego Police Department (SDPD).
SDPD released a statement confirming that ShotSpotter will do live fire testing.
ShotSpotter tracks gunshots and then alerts authorities of where the shots are coming from in real time. The information is relayed in 20 to 45 seconds after a gun is discharged.
According to NBC 7 Investigates, the system using acoustic sensors placed on building rooftops, street lights, light poles and cell towers to capture the data.
Last month, NBC 7 Investigates learned the program had been given the green light.
With the assistance of SDPD, the system will track 36 shots at different locations and times, including Valencia Park, Skyline, O'Farrell and Lincoln Park neighborhoods.
Officers and ShotSpotter personnel will inform residents living in those neighborhoods prior to testing.
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“In cases like drive-by's when you need to get there fast. I think this would have changed our whole lives,” said resident Dania Scott.
Scott told NBc 7 that her brother Xavier Fox was killed in a drive-by shooting in Lincoln Heights. Although half dozen people called 911, it took police three years to catch the suspected shooter.
“I'm devastated by the violence in southeast San Diego and I am praying for change every day,” Scott added.
“If it saves one life or it prevents one shooting, the question has to be asked. Is it worth it? We think it is,” said Lt. Scott Wahl with SDPD.
SDPD says the program has been implented by several agencies across the nation, including NYPD, Miwaukee PD and Miami PD.
An investigation by the Center for Public Integrity brought into question the reliability of the technology. Reporter Matt Drange dug into thousands of alerts in cities across the country and according to the news organization “a clear pattern emerged: lots of calls, few tangible results.”
