VBPD is Pleased to Announce Expansion of ShotSpotter Technology in 4th Precinct

The Virginia Beach Police Department (VBPD) is pleased to announce that ShotSpotter gunshot detection technology is now operational in our 4^th precinct, covering portions of the Level Green and College Park communities. With this expansion, the VBPD will now respond to and thoroughly investigate ALL incidents of gunfire detected within these areas.  

In July 2021, the VBPD implemented its first installment of ShotSpotter gunshot detection technology as part of an overall violence reduction strategy. With this new addition, VBPD now has ShotSpotter deployed in designated geographical areas in all four precincts. The technology continues to aid in keeping Virginia Beach safe as it allows officers to promptly respond to all detected incidents of gunfire.   

Historical data shows that since 2021, only 23% of all gunfire incidents detected in the coverage areas were called into 911. Without ShotSpotter, VBPD would have been unaware of and unable to respond to 77% of shots fired incidents in those coverage areas. Since introduced, ShotSpotter technology has detected 1,232 instances of gunfire incidents in the City of Virginia Beach. 

“ShotSpotter continues to be a game-changer for our department,” said Virginia Beach Police Chief Paul Neudigate. “It allows us to respond to gunfire incidents in real-time, often within seconds, which significantly reduces response times. This technology helps us better allocate our resources, protect communities, and gather critical evidence we might otherwise miss. Ultimately, it’s a powerful tool in our efforts to combat gun violence and keep our neighborhoods safe.  We currently have a 53% reduction year-to-date in gun-related homicides and 52% fewer total shooting victims compared to this time last year. ShotSpotter plays an important role in helping VBPD keep a laser-like focus on gun violence.”