Kankakee, IL – Kankakee Police have implemented new technology in an ongoing effort to address gun violence. ShotSpotter is a real-time gunshot detection and alert system where gunfire activity is monitored 24/7 and police are notified immediately.

The new system went live on Monday, November 9, 2020 after being awarded a federal grant that covered $48,188 of the $49,500 cost of the ShotSpotter System back in June.

Here is how ShotSpotter works:

• A gun shot is fired.
• Acoustic censors placed throughout the community are triggered by the sound.
• Data is reviewed by analysts.
• Patrol officers and dispatch centers are notified.
• Police respond.

 

According to ShotSpotter, the process takes less than 60 seconds from the time of the gunshot until when police are notified.

“As experienced in other jurisdictions, we believe that the utilization of the ShotSpotter technology will make our community safer. It allows officers to respond quicker and with more information on shots fired calls. With this tool, officers will be able to better investigate the calls in order to identify offenders and engage with witnesses with the goal of ultimately reducing the number of such calls in our town,” said Police Chief Frank Kosman.

“As we work towards a safer community, I look forward to how this new technology can better assist our police in response to gun violence. ShotSpotter is used in more than 100 cities nationwide. We are proud the City of Kankakee is now one of them as we continue to move Kankakee Forward,” said Mayor Wells-Armstrong.

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The City of Kankakee is dedicated to protecting, building and nurturing the community while enhancing lives. We are a historic, vibrant, and active riverfront community. We continue to transform into an extraordinary place to dream, grow, and thrive. Embracing our diversity, we strive to be progressive, inclusive, and innovative. For more information on the City of Kankakee, please visit the website at www.citykankakee-il.gov.

 

Download the Press Release - ShotSpotter Gun Detection Program Goes Live in the City of Kankakee