During a recent city council meeting, discussions centered around the effectiveness and economic implications of the ShotSpotter gunshot detection technology. Sean, a speaker at the meeting, presented findings from a longitudinal study conducted by Mitchell L. Doucet et al., published in the Journal of Urban Health. The study, which analyzed data from 1999 to 2016, concluded that ShotSpotter did not significantly impact firearm-related homicides or arrest outcomes.

Sean emphasized that more cost-effective policy solutions are necessary to address urban firearm violence, highlighting the staggering economic burden of gun violence in the U.S., estimated at $229 billion annually. He pointed out that cities spend up to $90,000 per square mile each year on ShotSpotter, which he argued only exacerbates the financial costs associated with gun violence due to its ineffectiveness.

He encouraged council members to review the study he provided, suggesting it offers valuable insights into the ongoing debate about the utility of ShotSpotter in urban safety strategies. Following Sean's remarks, Kathy Lawhon expressed her support for the previous speakers, underscoring the importance of community organizing in addressing these critical issues.