Cleveland State University’s independent two‑year evaluation found ShotSpotter reliably detects gunfire, improves evidence collection and can speed responses to some incidents, but it rarely functions as a standalone crime‑reduction tool. The city acknowledged contract phase‑out plans, discussed costs/coverage and said it is evaluating alternatives (including Flock) while council members pressed for RFP transparency, staffing data and community‑trust analysis.

Chief outlines benefits of full-time officer position for community engagement and scheduling.