Oakland Crime: Police back city renewing contract for ShotSpotter technology, critics argue that system is ineffective [Video]

OAKLAND, Calif. (KGO) — In the East Bay, the city of Oakland is set to decide next week whether or not to renew a contract with the Fremont-based company that provides gunshot-detecting technology.

It’s known as ShotSpotter, and it uses microphone-equipped sensors to detect gunshots.

Police say it is a necessary tool in their arsenal, but critics argue it hasn’t done much to curb gun violence.

As Oakland continues to grapple with gun violence, Oakland police say the ShotSpotter technology has been huge help in tackling crime.

“It is very important for us. It tells us the number of rounds that were fired. It gives us the location that gives us a faster response to get there, so we can locate the victim,” said Sgt. Hui Nguyen, president of the Oakland Police Officers’ Association.

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ShotSpotter uses microphone-equipped sensors to detect gunshots …