Lancaster, CA. March 11, 2024 – The Lancaster Police Department is proud to announce the deployment of gunshot detection technology to enhance public safety in the City. The technology is being provided by SoundThinking Inc. under a six-month pilot program and a three-year professional agreement. The solution, named ShotSpotter, is designed to identify, locate, and track active gunfire. This state-of-the-art technology is the newest addition to the City’s arsenal of public safety programs, continuing Lancaster’s development of the Digital Shield.

ShotSpotter is capable of identifying the sound of gunshots and alerting authorities within seconds of their occurrence. Once the sound is detected, the system automatically alerts law enforcement agencies by directing resources to the precise location of more than 90% of gunfire incidents with tremendous accuracy.

 “We are excited to partner with SoundThinking to bring this incredible technology to the City of Lancaster,” said Mayor R. Rex Parris. “We believe that ShotSpotter will play a significant role in enhancing public safety and reducing crime in our community. We are excited to see the positive impact it will have on our City and the lives of our residents and visitors." 

The addition of gunshot detection technology will be one of the components of the Digital Shield Initiative, an innovative approach to crime prevention that uses advanced technology to create a protective barrier around the City. With the Intelligence Crime Assessment Center serving as a centralized hub, law enforcement will leverage ShotSpotter technology, rapid license plate recognition, drones, cameras, and AI to collect, assess, and anticipate criminal risks and potential safety threats.

“We’re committed to ensuring the safety of our residents and visitors, and this new technology is an important step forward in achieving that goal,” said Chief of Police, Rodrick Armalin. “By leveraging technology and innovation, we can keep our City safe.”

For more information, please contact the Lancaster Police Department at LPD@cityoflancasterca.gov or visit www.cityoflancasterca.gov/PublicSafety.

About The City of Lancaster

Lancaster is a diverse community of nearly 170,000, leading the future through science, technology, art, culture, and collaboration. Home to astronauts, rocket scientists, families, and innovative businesses large and small, we are leading the USA with innovation. Combined with spectacular landscapes and clean air, Lancaster has the confidence, expertise, spirit, and imagination to transform tomorrow. We are: Creating a better tomorrow. Visit us at www.cityoflancasterca.gov.

City of Lancaster Public Safety is steadfastly committed to providing superior public safety services to all who live, work, and visit our City. They work alongside the Lancaster Sheriff’s Station to uphold the peace and enhance the quality of life in Lancaster. Public Safety proudly embraces state-of-the-art technology, data-driven decision-making processes, and community-oriented policing strategies to address the unique needs and concerns of our citizens.