CHICAGO (WBBM NEWSRADIO) – After months of debate and speculation, the Chicago Police department has confirmed that the controversial gunshot detection technology ShotSpotter will no longer be used in the city come 12:01 a.m. Monday.
The contract was set to expire at midnight.
In a statement, released late Sunday afternoon, CPD reassured residents despite the termination of the crime-fighting tool.
“This does not change our commitment to public safety and building stronger neighborhoods for all of our residents,” the department said. “Our hardworking officers will continue to respond to crime and work to stop the trauma of violence plaguing our communities.”
Sunday’s announcement comes following a late push by a majority of City Council members to preserve ShotSpotter. In a special meeting held Wednesday, members voted 33-14 to give Chicago Police Supt. Larry Snelling authority to extend the ShotSpotter contract.
The city’s top cop had been a ShotSpotter supporter.
But, Mayor Brandon Johnson, who’s been a steadfast opponent of the technology, promised to veto the action. As of Sunday evening, it’s unclear if the mayor used his veto power.