The World of Law Enforcement Slang
A guide to understanding the unique language used by law enforcement officers.
2025-03-08T09:19:25.233Z Back to posts
Law Enforcement Slang: A Guide to Understanding the Lingo
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Law enforcement agencies have developed their own unique language, known as law enforcement slang or cop jargon. This terminology is used by officers to communicate effectively and efficiently during emergency situations, investigations, and everyday interactions with the public.
Origins of Law Enforcement Slang
Law enforcement slang has its roots in the early days of policing when officers used colloquialisms to convey complex information quickly. Over time, this language evolved into a distinct dialect that is now widely recognized within law enforcement circles.
Common Law Enforcement Slang Terms
| Term | Definition |
|---|---|
| 10-4 | Affirmative response or message received |
| 10-20 | Location or address of an incident |
| 10-13 | Emergency or priority call |
| 10-7 | Out of service or unavailable |
| Adam 12 | Police radio code for “officer down” |
Investigative Slang
- Bingo: Evidence that links a suspect to a crime scene.
- Code 3: Lights and sirens activated, indicating an emergency response.
- Ditch: Abandoning a vehicle in a hurry or hiding from the police.
Vehicle-Related Slang
| Term | Definition |
|---|---|
| BOLO (Be On the LookOut) | Alert issued to locate a suspect or vehicle. |
| Hot sheet | A list of stolen vehicles or wanted individuals. |
| Wrecked unit | A vehicle that has been severely damaged in an accident |
In-Progress Slang
- Code 2: Non-emergency response, usually for minor incidents.
- Eyes on the street: Surveillance or observation by officers.
Specialized Units and Slang
| Unit | Definition |
|---|---|
| SWAT (Special Weapons and Tactics) | Elite team trained to handle high-risk situations. |
| K-9 (Canine) | Police dogs used for tracking, narcotics detection, or patrol duties |
Everyday Slang
- Ride-along: Accompanying an officer on patrol in their vehicle.
- Roll call: A daily briefing where officers discuss ongoing cases and assignments.
Understanding law enforcement slang is essential for communication between officers, departments, and the public. By familiarizing yourself with these terms, you’ll gain a deeper appreciation for the complexities of policing and the unique language that accompanies it.