Work

Assessing Public Support of Gunshot Detection Technology Through a Framing Survey Experiment

Year: 2025

Type: article

Abstract: Gunshot detection technology (“GDT”) is proliferating across law enforcement agencies, yet little is known about public support of GDT and whether various messages about GDT can sway public support. The present study reports findings from a pre-registered survey experiment (N = 2,412) randomly assigning respondents to one of the three following conditions: (1) GDT effectiveness, (2) GDT stigma, or (3) the control condition. Those assigned the GDT effectiveness treatment were significantly more likely to support GDT, whereas the GDT stigma treatment did not sway public approval of GDT. There were non-significant heterogeneity tests across non-White and recent crime victims. Police agencies adopting GDT should transparently disseminate successes of GDT effectiveness within their jurisdiction, while addressing potential community concerns of the technology.

Source: Crime & Delinquency

DOI: 10.1177/00111287251384656

Authors: Hunter M. Boehme, Brandon Tregle, Gabrielle Mascari, Kaley Smith

Institutions: University of South Carolina, The University of Texas at San Antonio

Language: English

Topic: Policing Practices and Perceptions

Subfield: Political Science and International Relations

Field: Social Sciences

Domain: Social Sciences

SDGs: Peace, justice, and strong institutions, Good health and well-being

Open Access status: hybrid

Estimated APC paid: $3,650