Tory pushing for more security cameras, audio technology to curb gun violence

Toronto's mayor asked the city's police services board today to support the addition of more security cameras and audio technology in an effort to help curb gun violence.

Toronto has seen a spike in gun violence this year that has led to increased calls for the city to take action.

The mayor says he wants to "more than double" the number of closed circuit police cameras in public places where gang activity and gun violence are known to take place, bringing the total number of police cameras to around 80.

He says he is also asking to adopt "ShotSpotter" technology already in use in the U.S. that uses microphones to detect gunfire and automatically informs police.

Tory says implementing the technological measures will cost $4 million over two years, which will likely be covered by crime prevention funding from the federal and provincial governments.

The mayor has also proposed that Police Chief Mark Saunders report to the board in September on ways to expand the Neighbourhood Officer program, which aims to build connections between police and community members.