Victorville deploys gunshot detection technology for increased public safety

VICTORVILLE – The City of Victorville announced it deployed new gunshot detection technology, last month, in two of its neighborhoods with the most gun-related calls for service – Brentwood/Hook and Old Town/Midtown.

“The City of Victorville is investing in advanced technologies to increase the effectiveness of our law enforcement for a safer Victorville,” said Victorville Mayor Liz Becerra.

The acoustic system detects gunfire and pinpoints its location within seconds and helps speed emergency response and investigations.

Victorville is the first city in San Bernardino County to implement this technology.

Less than 20% of gunfire incidents are reported to 911

The city said on average, less than 20% of gunfire incidents are reported to 911 nationwide.

Since its deployment three weeks ago, ShotSpotter has helped the Victorville Police Department solve three gun-related incidents that were not reported to 911.

ShotSpotter is a gunshot detection and alert system. It identifies weapon types, number of shooters, and exact gunfire location to guide law enforcement response.

The city signed a $470,000 three-year agreement

Victorville deployed ShotSpotter after installing 123 license plate readers to help deputies locate suspects and solve crimes faster.

Next, the city plans to launch a drone program, with data from all technologies fed into a new real-time crime center.

The city signed a three-year agreement with Sound Thinking to use SpotShotter. The $470,000 contract is funded through AB 3229 Supplemental Law Enforcement Services Fund.