What is a 10-79 Police Code?
The 10-79 police code is a commonly used term in law enforcement, but what does it mean? In this article, we will delve into the world of police communication codes and provide a clear explanation of what a 10-79 police code is.
What are Police Communication Codes?
Before we dive into the specifics of the 10-79 code, let’s take a step back and understand the concept of police communication codes. In the early days of police communication, officers used radios to communicate with each other and with dispatchers. To avoid confusion and improve communication, police departments developed a standardized system of codes and phrases to convey specific messages.
These codes, often referred to as "ten-codes," are designed to be short, clear, and easy to understand. They allow officers to quickly convey information about crimes, emergencies, and other situations without using lengthy verbal descriptions. Over time, these codes have become an essential part of police communication and are used by departments across the United States.
What is a 10-79 Police Code?
So, what is a 10-79 police code? The answer is "Convict in custody." This code is used to inform dispatchers and other officers that a suspect is in custody and being transported to a jail or correctional facility.
Here’s a breakdown of the 10-79 code:
- 10: The "10" prefix is a standard code used to indicate a specific message is being transmitted.
- 79: The "79" suffix is the unique code for "Convict in custody."
How is the 10-79 Code Used?
When an officer makes an arrest, they will typically broadcast the 10-79 code to inform dispatchers and other officers that the suspect is in custody. This code serves several purposes:
- Notification: The 10-79 code notifies dispatchers that the suspect is being taken into custody and will soon be transported to a correctional facility.
- Verification: The code also serves as a verification system, ensuring that the arresting officer has the suspect in custody and that the custody status is accurately reported.
- Communication: By broadcasting the 10-79 code, officers can quickly communicate the custody status of a suspect to other officers and agencies, improving coordination and response times.
Other Important Police Codes
While the 10-79 code is specific to custody status, there are many other police communication codes used by law enforcement agencies. Here are some examples:
| Code | Meaning |
|---|---|
| 10-1 | Weak signal |
| 10-2 | Signal good |
| 10-4 | Message received |
| 10-5 | Relay message |
| 10-13 | Handle with care |
| 10-20 | Suspect in custody |
| 10-29 | Vehicle information needed |
These codes are used to convey a wide range of information, from confirming receipt of a message to requesting specific information or services.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the 10-79 police code is a standard term used in law enforcement to indicate that a suspect is in custody and being transported to a correctional facility. By understanding these codes, the public can gain a deeper appreciation for the complexities of police communication and the importance of these standardized systems. Whether you’re a law enforcement professional or simply someone interested in the inner workings of the criminal justice system, this article has provided a clear explanation of what a 10-79 police code is and how it is used.
