During a Tuesday St. Louis County Council meeting, council members proposed the restoration of $718,000 in funding for ShotSpotter systems.
It's a counterproposal to County Executive Sam Page's proposed 2024 budget cuts, which would scrap the program.
Aidan Worel, a St. Louis County resident says the safety technology would be a needed change.
"If we can go ahead and allocate a little money to make sure police officers are where they need to be so we can reduce crime in St. Louis County that is an incredible way of using money," Worel said.
Southern Illinois University Edwardsville's Dr. Dennis Mares has studied the technology for years in St. Louis city, around the country including in Cincinnati and Winston Salem. He serves as the director of the Center for Crime Science and Violence Prevention.
"In the experience I've heard from officers across the country as a whole it's a pretty accurate system," Mares said.
According to ShotSpotter, the cost for ShotSpotter is $65,000-90,000 per square mile per year, with a $10,000 per square mile one-time service initiation fee.
Mares said the system only works if departments are using it correctly.
"It doesn't mean it reduces crime. That involves a police department using best practices to respond well, investigate well and use the shell casings for analysis," Dr. Mares said.
Worel said it all comes down to one thing.
"I would like to see money allocated in ways that are useful," Worel said.
St. Louis County Prosecuting Attorney Wesley Bell supports the program and said:
"Shot Spotter is another tool law enforcement needs to combat gun violence. Shot Spotter evidence often can determine if there was a gap in the shots (which could be an indication of deliberation in a Murder 1st Degree case), or potentially can tell if different guns were fired (if they are of different calibers). It can provide corroboration (or exculpatory evidence) if a victim claims they were shot at. Additionally, the faster the police can respond, the better they can ensure the integrity of the scene, locate witnesses - to preserve and gather the evidence we need to hold violent offenders accountable."
But the Ethical Society of Police said the money could be better spent elsewhere.
"The decision to fund ShotSpotter is one that should be made based on priority and practicality rather than anecdotal evidence that supports its efficacy. We believe prioritizing investment in crime victim services, intervention/engagement initiatives, as well as staff (Police, corrections, family court, prosecutors, etc.) recruitment efforts would yield a better return in our investment," Lt. Ray Rice said.
The St. Louis County Executive sent 5 On Your Side a statement that said, in part, "We are reviewing the proposed changes to understand the impact on county government."
The County Council is expected to vote on a full budget for the fiscal year 2024 next Tuesday night.