Objectives
We examine the potential effects of gunshot detection technology longitudinally in
Chicago through a synthetic control quasi-experiment.
Methods
Police districts receiving gunshot detection technology were compared to a synthetic
control unit via a staggered difference-in-difference design. Across eleven unique
gunshot detection technology deployment phases, the analyses produce results for aggregate,
initial versus expanded, and phase-specific deployment effects across five gun violence
outcome measures.
Results
Gunshot detection technology had no effect on fatal shootings, non-fatal shootings,
general part I gun crimes, or shots fired calls for service. Gun recoveries significantly
increased in the aggregate, initial, and expanded models, and in several individual
phases relative to controls.
Conclusions
The results align with prior literature that has found a procedural benefit, but not
a crime prevention benefit, of gunshot detection technology. Law enforcement agencies
seeking crime prevention or reduction solutions may be better served by investing
in other options.