By DAVID CRUZ

A high-tech sound system aimed at detecting gunfire is now operational within the 52nd Precinct, covering the northwest Bronx.

Commissioner Bill Bratton announced that ShotSpotter, billed as a gun fire detection system with pinpoint accuracy, was installed throughout the 52nd Precinct, along with six others throughout the Bronx. Inspector Nilda Hofmann, the precinct’s commanding officer, had spent several weeks mulling over where to install acoustic sensors needed to detect gun shots, which required building owners consent. The system is activated once gunshots are picked up by sensors, where a real-time signal is sent to a 911 operator’s computer identifying where shots were fired. Operators then dispatch a team. The software is purported to identify where shots were fired instead of going by second hand information that often sends police officers at a different direction from where shots originated.

“It will enable us to respond to shooting incidents in a more timely manner, and provide us with the ability to help victims, solve crimes and apprehend dangerous suspects more quickly,” said Bratton in a statement.

The news comes months after a trio of New York City Councilmembers sounded the alarm over the need to bring ShotSpotter to the Bronx. Councilmembers Andrew Cohen, Andy King and Ritchie Torres–who represent the 11th, 12th and 15 Council Districts respectively–drafted a letter to Commissioner Bratton last year requesting the anti-crime tool come to the borough. ShotSpotter has already been installed in other major cities, including Chicago, Minneapolis and Camden, New Jersey.

In a joint statement, the legislators cheered the installation of the system, noting that “ShotSpotter will assist our local police precincts in their investigations and improve the quality of life for all Bronxites.”

Shootings have seen a slight rise so far this year. Current NYPD CompStat figures show there were four shootings in the 52nd Precinct, up from two the same time last year.

Gun fire had claimed the life of an 18-year-old Jonathan Martinez, shot in the chest on March 13. Three other teens were later arrested.