Delays for Suffolk ShotSpotter system

ShotSpotter, the high-tech crime fighting tool that helps police pinpoint where and when gunshots are fired, was to become operational in five Suffolk County areas by July 1, but won't be up and running until fall.

The system, which is targeted for Wyandanch, North Amityville, Huntington Station, Brentwood and North Bellport, has been put off because of delays in settling the contract, county officials said.

Nassau police and other law enforcement agencies nationwide that have used the system credit it with helping police catch suspects and find victims more quickly. The sensors locate the sound of gunshots and transmit the information to police.

Installation of the new system by summer -- traditionally the peak period for violent crime, according to federal data -- had been a top priority for sponsors in the Suffolk Legislature. Lawmakers approved ShotSpotter on March 21.

County spokesman Dan Aug said the county and ShotSpotter tried to negotiate an agreement before an April 1 deadline to implement the system by July 1, but neither side could agree on remedies available to the county should ShotSpotter not be ready on time. Suffolk and the company reached a lease agreement May 3 that gives the company 120 days to install the system.

The lease agreement will cost Suffolk $450,000 for the first year and $334,500 for each of the following two years. North Bellport will receive ShotSpotter for a fourth and fifth year, at a cost to the county of $71,500 a year.

Legis. Kate Browning (WFP-Shirley), who represents North Bellport, said last week that she was "very disappointed, but at the same time we will have it in the fall."

Suffolk police Chief of Department Robert Moore said last week that the company is seeking permission from property owners and the Long Island Power Authority to let ShotSpotter attach a total of about 100 sound sensors to buildings and utility poles. He said he believed the company would make the new deadline.

ShotSpotter representatives over several days did not return phone calls for comment.