Ford seeks ShotSpotter system for LBPD

Nassau County Legislator Denise Ford announced last week that she is seeking funding to bring the Shotspotter Gunshot Detection and Location system to the Long Beach Police Department. The system utilizes sophisticated technology to detect and record gunfire in specifically targeted locations.

The proposal comes on the heels of a string of recent shootings in Long Beach, particularly in the North Park neighborhood. A shot was fired into the air on July 6 during an argument at Channel Park Homes, less than a month after a 4-year-old boy at the housing complex was grazed by a stray bullet on June 19 when an a disagreement outside of his home escalated. Last month the LBPD arrested Wyoming Avenue resident Brian Kelly in connection with an early morning shooting that occurred in the West End on June 16.

“There have been many shootings recently in Long Beach’s North Park area, and I’ve seen the success that the Nassau County Police Department has had using ShotSpotter to identify the exact location of gunfire and the perpetrator using the gun,” Ford said.

In the case of the June 19 shooting, police arrested 20-year-old Obe Isaac just hours after the incident.

The system uses mounted detectors and cameras to record the number of shots fired, whether the shooter was stationary or moving and essential audio playback of the gunshot event whenever gunfire is detected.

"Several months ago, we identified ShotSpotter as a resource that we desperately need, and we requested financial assistance from Nassau County," Long Beach Police Commissioner Michael Tangney said. "We are now working with Legislator Ford to accomplish the goal of bringing this incredibly valuable system to Long Beach, enabling our department to provide even greater protection for our residents."