Denver police explore ShotSpotter alternatives
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The Denver Police Department's relationship with ShotSpotter could soon come to an end after 10 years, as the agency says it's exploring replacements for gunshot detection.
Why it matters: The move could reignite a public conversation about the controversial technology, including whether it makes Denver safer and how the city spends money in a tight budget year.
State of play: With DPD's current $4.7 million ShotSpotter contract ending Dec. 31, the agency on Thursday said it's reviewing how the tech can aid gun violence response moving forward.
- The city's launching a bidding process for potential new vendors — DPD's statement doesn't specify when — and will consider public feedback, including where the system is placed.
Context: The city has used ShotSpotter's tech since 2015.
- The system will remain operational through 2026, though coverage and use will wind down, with DPD saying it will remove the tech from areas with the lowest number of alerts.
By the numbers: Between 2020 and June 2026, ShotSpotter issued 25,217 alerts, which DPD connected to 655 arrests and 721 firearm recoveries.
Between the lines: Gunshot detection technology wasn't explicitly mentioned in the department's new strategy to address an alarming rise in violence to start 2026.
- However, police chief Ron Thomas said in a statement that the technology can help make communities safer.
Yes, but: Critics blast the technology as flawed, saying it mistakes other noises for gunshots, and increasing potentially dangerous interactions between police and the public.
What we're watching: If DPD signs a new contract with ShotSpotter or picks a different vendor.
- The company on Friday did not respond to a request for comment.