Gunshot Detector Proposal Misfires in Detroit

DETROIT (AP) — Technology designed to pick up the sounds of gunshots and help police determine where they came from was voted down 5-4 by the Detroit City Council.

Police Chief Ralph Godbee had pushed for the ShotSpotter system to go in some of Detroit's toughest areas, but some on the 9-member council said they weren't convinced Tuesday that crime would be reduced.

Councilman Ken Cockrel Jr. asked with a staffing shortage how quickly officers could respond when gunshots are detected. Many Detroit residents complain that it takes police too long to respond to 911 calls.

The $2.6 million cost over three years would have been paid with federal forfeiture funds and grants.

California-based SST says the system is being used in about 60 U.S. cities.

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