Cambridge Ends Contract with Gunshot Detection System Amid Criticism

A Massachusetts city has taken a significant step by deciding to terminate its contract with ShotSpotter, a gunshot detection system utilized by the police to identify possible shootings in real time. The decision was made by the Cambridge City Council following mounting criticism regarding the reliability of the technology and concerns of over-policing.

ShotSpotter employs a network of acoustic sensors positioned above streets across neighborhoods. These sensors are designed to detect sounds resembling gunfire and automatically alert law enforcement when such sounds are perceived. However, detractors argue that the system can generate false alerts triggered by other loud noises, such as car backfires.

Concerns have been raised about potential connections to federal immigration enforcement, which critics believe could pose privacy and safety risks. Councilor Ayah Al-Zubi, a co-sponsor of the resolution to discontinue ShotSpotter, highlighted these concerns, stating that the perceived relationship between federal authorities and the technology company could undermine residents’ rights and interests.

This move by Cambridge aligns with a similar decision by Chicago in February 2024, where the city opted not to renew its contract for ShotSpotter technology. The rejection of ShotSpotter indicates increasing pushback from cities regarding its application.

The Cambridge City Council’s decision resulted in a vote where five councilors opted to terminate the contract, while two opposed and two abstained during this week’s meeting. According to Boston.com, the decision directs the city manager and police department to discontinue the use of ShotSpotter within 90 days, with the technology’s removal from local sites.

Soundthinking, the operator of the system, defends the technology, asserting its purpose is to save lives, speed up police response, and aid investigators in evidence recovery. The company claims alerts are delivered within 60 seconds to law enforcement, enabling rapid action.

Despite support from Cambridge City Manager Yi-An Huang and acting Police Commissioner Pauline Wells, who noted instances where the system successfully detected gunfire without 911 calls, critics remain unconvinced. They emphasize the lack of sufficient independent scientific validation and question the reliability of the system.

SoundThinking issued a statement in response to the decision, expressing pride in its service since 2014 and defending the technology’s effectiveness and unbiased nature. The company insists on its commitment to collaborate with communities in ensuring protection against gun violence while safeguarding privacy.