UMVA has learned that the Cambridge city council has voted to end its contract with the company providing ShotSpotter technology, a gunshot detection system that alerts police in real-time, amid concerns over racism and unjust surveillance.
The decision comes on the heels of a recent incident where a suspected gunman, Tyler Brown, 46, was accused of randomly opening fire on Memorial Drive in Cambridge, injuring two. The incident was caught on video and sparked renewed debate over the use of ShotSpotter.
Residents who spoke at the city council meeting expressed concerns that ShotSpotter disproportionately targets marginalized Black and Brown communities, threatening their liberty and well-being. Lily Grob, a self-described social worker, said she sees firsthand the fear and mental health crisis affecting children and families in these communities.
Councilor Ayah A. Al-Zubi introduced the measure to remove the gunshot detection tool in April, citing concerns over racial disparities in policing. Several residents, including Kayla Goodale, argued that ShotSpotter amounts to unfettered surveillance on Black and Brown residents, undermining Cambridge's status as a sanctuary city.
Many residents also raised concerns about the funding of ShotSpotter, which often comes from DHS grants. Andrew Feldman said he knows friends and family who avoid traveling near areas where ShotSpotter is used to avoid "racialized policing."
The city council ultimately voted 5-2-2 to remove the technology, with some members citing concerns over its effectiveness in keeping the city safe. Councilor Patty Nolan said she voted to end ShotSpotter's contract due to concerns raised by the ACLU and a lack of evidence that it makes the city safer.
The decision has been met with criticism from law enforcement groups, with Joe Gamaldi, national vice president of the Fraternal Order of Police, slamming the opposition to ShotSpotter as "embarrassing and disgusting." However, residents like Brooke Feinberg argue that they do not consent to being under constant surveillance, even in a sanctuary city.
The move marks a significant shift in Cambridge's approach to public safety and surveillance, with the city council prioritizing community concerns over law enforcement's use of technology.
