COLORADO SPRINGS, Colo. — Colorado Springs police are testing out a new way to combat gun-related violence with technology that will alert the department as soon as it detects gunfire.
The system uses a network of acoustic sensors to detect when a gun is fired, and then quickly pinpoints the location of the gunfire before notifying CSPD. By providing a location, this system helps to speed police response, which has the potential to save lives by directing first responders to potential victims, according to CSPD. This technology can also help increase the likelihood of weapon-related arrests and enhances neighborhood safety.
While this system is effective, CSPD said it still encourages the community to report the sound of gunfire.
The CSPD analyzed reported gun crimes in the city and determined that the area surrounding the Valley Hi neighborhood, near the intersection of Fountain Boulevard and Chelton Road, has the highest concentration of reported gunfire.
The area has been chosen for the initial installation and evaluation of the new gunfire detection system.
Between 1 and 3 p.m. Tuesday, the police department will conduct a live-fire calibration of the system. These tests will include a sequence of gunshots followed by a validation of sound detection from the system. Frangible bullets, which are designed to break up into smaller pieces when it hits a surface, and a bullet trap will be used during the test to ensure public safety.
There is no danger to the public during this time, though residents in the Valley Hi, Park Hill, and Pikes Peak Park neighborhoods may hear gunshots from this calibration process.
Because of its partnership with the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives and the Department of Defense, the city of Colorado Springs does not incur any expenses related to this tool.