WHEREAS, Gun violence is a growing threat to the safety and well being of our citizens, causing more than 250 deaths in our City in 2007; and
WHEREAS, Washington, D.C. has implemented ShotSpotter, a network of noise sensors which identify and pinpoint gunfire, guiding police to crime scenes and enabling police to arrest offenders at the location of a shooting; and
WHEREAS, ShotSpotter works in conjunction with video surveillance cameras, such as those being installed throughout Philadelphia; and
WHEREAS, At least a dozen jurisdictions have implemented ShotSpotter or similar systems; and
WHEREAS, ShotSpotter offers the opportunity to upgrade law enforcement, deter crime and enhance public safety; now therefore
RESOLVED, BY THE COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF PHILADELPHIA, That authority is given to the Committee on Technology and Information Services to conduct hearings on implementing a ShotSpotter system to combat gun violence.
End