What is BOLO Police?
In the world of law enforcement, there are various alerts and notifications that are sent out to police officers and other authorities to help keep the public safe. One of these alerts is called a BOLO, which stands for "Be On the LookOut." In this article, we will explore what a BOLO is, how it is used, and what you can do if you receive a BOLO alert.
What is a BOLO?
A BOLO is a notice sent out to law enforcement agencies and other authorities to alert them to a specific individual or vehicle that may be involved in a crime or is wanted for a particular offense. The alert typically includes a description of the individual or vehicle, as well as any identifying information, such as license plate numbers or physical characteristics.
Types of BOLOs
There are several types of BOLOs, including:
• Wanted Person: A BOLO may be issued for a person who is wanted for a specific crime, such as robbery, assault, or burglary.
• Missing Person: A BOLO may be issued for a person who is missing and authorities are seeking information about their whereabouts.
• Suspicious Vehicle: A BOLO may be issued for a vehicle that is believed to be involved in a crime or is suspected of being stolen.
• Armed and Dangerous: A BOLO may be issued for a person who is believed to be armed and dangerous, and may pose a threat to public safety.
How Does a BOLO Work?
When a BOLO is issued, it is typically sent out to all law enforcement agencies in a specific area, as well as to other authorities such as highway patrol and customs agents. The alert may also be broadcast over the radio and television, as well as posted on social media and other online platforms.
What Can You Do if You Receive a BOLO Alert?
If you receive a BOLO alert, there are several things you can do to help:
• Report Any Information: If you have any information about the individual or vehicle described in the BOLO, you should report it to the authorities immediately.
• Be Vigilant: Keep an eye out for the individual or vehicle described in the BOLO, and report any sightings to the authorities.
• Do Not Approach: Do not approach the individual or vehicle described in the BOLO, as it may be dangerous.
• Follow Instructions: If you are instructed to provide information or assistance, do so promptly and follow the instructions of the authorities.
BOLO Examples
Here are a few examples of BOLOs:
| BOLO Example | Description |
|---|---|
| Wanted Person: | A male, 25 years old, 5’9" tall, with short brown hair and a tattoo of a snake on his arm, wanted for a robbery in progress. |
| Missing Person: | A female, 30 years old, 5’2" tall, with long blonde hair and a distinctive scar on her cheek, missing from her home in suburban Los Angeles. |
| Suspicious Vehicle: | A black sedan with tinted windows, believed to be involved in a hit-and-run accident, seen driving on I-405. |
| Armed and Dangerous: | A male, 40 years old, 6’2" tall, with a shaved head and a tattoo of a skull on his neck, believed to be armed and dangerous, seen fleeing the scene of a robbery. |
Conclusion
A BOLO is an important tool used by law enforcement agencies to help keep the public safe. By understanding what a BOLO is, how it is used, and what you can do if you receive a BOLO alert, you can help authorities apprehend wanted individuals and solve crimes. Remember to always report any information you may have and follow the instructions of the authorities if you receive a BOLO alert.
