On Thursday, July 11, 2019, the Newport News Police Department will be conducting a live-fire gunshot event to test the ShotSpotter solution as they conduct a detection qualification and validation analysis. The purpose of the testing, is to test the sensor calibration, quality of detection, and identify any additional calibration of the sensors needed.
ShotSpotter uses a wide-area network of acoustic sensors to detect when a gun is being fired and then precisely and quickly pinpoints the location of gunfire. In less than one minute, officers and dispatchers are notified of the fully qualified and validated gunfire incident, even if no one calls 911 – although the community is always encouraged to report the sounds of gunfire. By quickly notifying police with precise information, ShotSpotter helps speed police response, has the potential to save lives, increases weapons-related arrests, and enhances the safety of our neighborhoods.
Newport News Police will be onsite at all test locations. The controlled test will consist of a sequence of gunshot sounds followed by validation of quality detection by ShotSpotter. During the test, a bullet trap will be used to ensure public safety. NO BULLETS WILL BE FIRED INTO THE AIR AND THERE IS NO DANGER TO THE PUBLIC. The testing will be conducted from 5:30 pm to 7:30 pm. Due to the strategic nature of ShotSpotter the exact locations cannot be disclosed.