Law enforcement agencies around the world use various codes to communicate effectively and discreetly. These codes are designed to convey crucial information quickly and can range from simple status updates to emergency alerts. Here are 5 common police codes used in various jurisdictions, along with a brief explanation of each:
10-4: This is perhaps one of the most recognizable police codes, often used in popular culture. It simply means “message received” or “acknowledged.” When an officer responds with “10-4,” they are confirming that they have understood the message or instruction from dispatch.
10-20: This code is used to request or provide location information. For example, if dispatch asks an officer for their “10-20,” the officer would respond with their current location. It’s a quick way to pinpoint where units are at any given time.
10-28: The 10-28 code is specifically used to request information on a vehicle’s registration. When an officer stops a vehicle and wants to check its registration, they might call in with the vehicle’s license plate number and ask for a “10-28.” Dispatch would then provide the officer with the vehicle’s registration details.
10-78: This code signifies a request for assistance. If an officer is in a situation where they need backup, they would call out “10-78” to alert nearby units or dispatch that they require help at their location.
10-97: Arrived at scene. This code is used by officers to notify dispatch that they have arrived at the location of the incident they were dispatched to. It helps dispatch keep track of the status of calls and the whereabouts of units in the field.
It’s worth noting that while these codes are widely recognized, different departments or regions might use slightly different codes or have their own unique codes for specific situations. Additionally, the use of these codes can vary significantly between jurisdictions, and not all departments rely on the same coding system. The evolution of communication technology has also led to a reduction in the reliance on numeric codes for everyday communication, with many agencies moving towards more direct and plain language communication, especially in emergency situations.
