Savannah is committing $262,500 a year for three years to continue using ShotSpotter, a subscription that covers 3.5 square miles and is paid for with money from the city’s general fund, according to city documents. The total commitment is nearly $800,000.
The system sends real-time alerts to police when it detects possible gunfire. Alderman Detric Leggett said a recent alert helped officers locate a woman who had been shot in the hand and get emergency services to her.
Mayor Van Johnson said the alerts can help officers locate possible shooting scenes when gunfire is heard but no one calls 911, and assess whether medical attention may be needed. Johnson acknowledged that crime is down, but said Savannah wants to continue using the technology, which he said has helped identify and solve crimes.
Leggett said he wants more clarity about who can access data collected through ShotSpotter. Johnson said his goal is eventually to expand the system’s coverage throughout Savannah.
By News Now Georgia
Yolonda Harris
News Now Georgia
