Situation
In 2024, the City of Utica activated ShotSpotter, marking a significant step in addressing gun violence in the area. “Adding this level of integrated technology to our public safety capabilities is exactly what we need to increase the level of detail when investigating incidents of potential gun violence”, Mayor Mike Galime said.
Results
43%
Increase in fatal shootings solved
75%
More shooting-related investigations solved
“I really have to give a lot of credit to our overall gun reduction strategy,” said Lieutenant Michael Curley when asked about the reduction in gun crime. In particular, he credited evidence-based violence reduction initiative SNUG, which focuses on mediating conflicts with the individuals at the highest risk of shooting or being shot, as “really doing their part.”
[ShotSpotter] is another tool for our law enforcement officers to address gun violence in our community.
Curley also credited the attributed the crime reduction to Utica Police Department’s investment in a variety of force-multiplying technology. “We invested a lot in technology such as license plate readers, cameras, and ShotSpotter. So I think if you put everything together, it is really paying off,” he said.
Oneida County District Attorney Todd Carville also praised the use of ShotSpotter. “We strive to reduce gun violence and make our community safer; ShotSpotter will assist in this endeavor,” he said.