Victorville City Council approves ShotSpotter gunshot detection technology for police

In a significant move to enhance public safety, the Victorville City Council convened on May 6, 2025, to discuss the implementation of ShotSpotter technology, an advanced gunshot detection system. This initiative comes in response to rising concerns about gun violence and aims to improve law enforcement's ability to respond to incidents more effectively.

During the meeting, Deputy City Manager Tony Camargo and Lieutenant Mark Braco presented the benefits of ShotSpotter, which utilizes acoustic sensors to detect gunfire and provide real-time alerts to police. The technology is designed to address the alarming statistic that less than 20% of gunfire incidents are reported to 911 nationwide. In Victorville, the police department has recorded over 2,300 calls related to gunfire in the past five years, but officials believe the actual number of incidents is significantly higher due to underreporting.

The proposed ShotSpotter system would cover high-incident areas identified through crime data analysis, specifically targeting neighborhoods with the highest rates of gunfire. The council members expressed enthusiasm about the potential for this technology to not only enhance response times but also improve evidence collection, which is crucial for successful prosecutions. Studies have shown that cities using ShotSpotter experience quicker response times and higher rates of evidence recovery at crime scenes.

Council members raised questions regarding the system's capabilities, including its ability to distinguish between gunfire and other loud noises, such as fireworks. The representatives assured that the technology is designed to minimize false alerts and can effectively identify gunfire in various environments.

The council unanimously approved a budget amendment of $470,250 to fund the deployment of ShotSpotter, making Victorville the first city in San Bernardino County to adopt this technology. The decision reflects a broader commitment to enhancing public safety through innovative solutions, as highlighted by the ongoing efforts to increase police presence and utilize advanced technologies.

As the city prepares to implement ShotSpotter, officials emphasized the importance of transparency and community awareness regarding the new system. The council aims to communicate the benefits of this technology to deter criminal activity and foster a safer environment for residents.

In conclusion, the Victorville City Council's decision to adopt ShotSpotter marks a proactive step towards addressing gun violence and improving public safety. The anticipated rollout of this technology will be closely monitored, with hopes of expanding its use throughout the city based on its effectiveness in reducing crime and enhancing community safety.