In a special meeting held on July 24, 2025, the Vallejo Surveillance Advisory Board reviewed the Flock Raven program, a gunshot detection system aimed at enhancing public safety in areas of the city most affected by gun violence. The program utilizes strategically placed sensors to detect gunfire, providing law enforcement with critical information to respond more effectively to incidents.

The Flock Raven system has shown several advantages, including the ability to pinpoint the location of gunfire when dispatch cannot, which is crucial for locating victims quickly. This technology also allows for anonymous reporting, encouraging citizens who may be hesitant to call the police to still alert authorities about gunfire. However, limitations were acknowledged, such as the need for broader coverage across the city, as not all areas are equipped with the system.

During the meeting, a timeline of the program's implementation was presented, detailing the training and beta testing phases that began in June 2025. The system went live on September 6, with dispatch notifications updated to prioritize alerts from the Raven system. By September 27, all relevant personnel had completed training, ensuring they were prepared to utilize the technology effectively.

Several case studies were highlighted to illustrate the system's impact. For instance, on May 12, a Raven alert led officers to a shooting victim who had been struck in the stomach, allowing for a swift response that likely saved the victim's life. Another incident involved multiple gunshot alerts in the Country Club Crest area, where the system helped track a rolling gun battle between two groups, resulting in the identification of victims and potential suspects.

Board members raised questions about the decision-making process for dispatching officers in response to Raven alerts. It was clarified that while alerts are classified as priority two calls, additional evidence, such as independent witness reports, can elevate the urgency of a response.

The meeting underscored the importance of the Flock Raven program in addressing gun violence in Vallejo, highlighting both its successes and areas for improvement. As the city continues to evaluate the effectiveness of this technology, the discussions will likely inform future enhancements and expansions of the program to ensure greater safety for the community.