CHICAGO (WLS) — As Chicago looks for advanced technology to assist its police and paramedics, a diverse range of proposals has emerged from companies across the nation. The deadline for these proposals is rapidly approaching, with a final submission date set for next Friday, aimed at replacing the contentious ShotSpotter system dismantled last year.
A Freedom of Information Act request revealed several innovative ideas submitted by 15 companies, which include implementing networks of drones across the city to act as “first responders to 911 calls,” utilizing an artificial intelligence “deep learning neural network” to monitor video feeds, and employing strategic placements of cell phones turned acoustic sensors to detect gunshots.
The parent company of ShotSpotter, SoundThinking, is among those responding to the city’s request for information. Following the termination of the previous ShotSpotter contract, Mayor Brandon Johnson’s administration is poised to begin a detailed evaluation process for alternative solutions.
Bill Kushner, a police affairs consultant, believes a new system is essential. He noted, “The police department needs every help it can get. If they can integrate gunshot detection technology into a camera system, that’s priceless.” However, privacy advocates have raised concerns regarding the implications of these proposed technologies.
Hannah Zhao, an attorney at the Electronic Frontier Foundation, warned, “I can understand the argument that it is helpful for policing, but lots of tools are helpful for police. I bet that the Big Brother system in ‘1984’ would be super helpful because it surveils everyone, but I don’t think that’s the kind of state we want to live in.”
Company Proposals Overview:
- Axon Fusus: A live network of cameras providing real-time situational awareness by aggregating data from various sources.
- Blue Hammer: An AI deep learning system that confirms incidents within 60 seconds via live camera feeds.
- The FireFLY III System: Utilizing technology developed for military use to detect gunfire with high accuracy.
- Databuoy: Sensor installations on light poles to detect and locate gunfire.
- ELERTS See Say: A citizen-powered program for reporting incidents, enhancing police awareness in real-time.
- Flock Safety Raven: Sensors that detect gunshots and notify police promptly.
- Knightscope: A rapid-response gunshot detection system based on acoustic data processing.
- Skydio: A network of drones acting as first responders for quicker violent crime detection.
- Triangula: A system leveraging smartphones to detect gunshots across various locations.
The initiative reflects a significant shift in Chicago’s approach to public safety, emphasizing the potential benefits and risks associated with advanced technology in law enforcement.
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- Chicago Police
- Gunshot Detection