What is Police Bolo?
A Brief History
A Police Bolo, also known as a "Police Alert" or "BEOn the Loose" ("Bolo" for short), is a term widely used in law enforcement, especially in California, the United States. The phrase originates from the 1883 novel "The Destruction of Los Angeles" by Alta California journalist and Sheriff William H. Parker’s notes. Parker, an outspoken critic of corruption, believed that a "bead" (a phrase that was used to describe someone fleeing) should be passed between law enforcement agencies in search of a suspect who has escaped. Over time, this phrase evolved into a "Bolo Warning", a formal bulletin dispatched to alert other departments, agencies, and members of the public about the fugitive’s identity and details.
<h2Defining a Police Bolo
A Police Bolo is a rapid-fire, low-level priority warning issued to law enforcement agencies, alerting them to a wanted individual on the loose. This formal warning is disseminated electronicall using various channels, including:
• Regional or local radio networks_
• State or National Emergency Management Network (EMONET)
• /_ Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) networks
• Online Police Bolo systems like CALEA (CALEA) and NENA
<h2 Purposes of a Police Bolo
A Police Bolo serves several purposes:
• Identifying fugitives: Providing agencies with detailed descriptions of escaped felons, including distinguishing characteristics, crimes committed, and any associated vehicles.
• Tracking and alerting: Alerting patrolling officers and other police departments to the presence of a wanted individual, empowering them to apprehend and contain the fugitive before posing a risk to others or themselves.
• Fostering cooperation: Encouraging swift collaboration among law enforcement agencies, as well as cooperation between officers and with the public, to maximize efforts in locating and recapturing the fugitive.
<h2 Elements of a Police Bolo
A Police Bolo typically includes the following components:
| Components | Description |
|---|---|
| Suspect Name | The alleged fugitive’s name(s), including any aliases used |
| Description | Physical appearance, facial structure, and any tattoos, scars, or clothing notable features |
| Vehicles | Suspected vehicle(s) driven or associated with the subject |
| Crimes Committed | Summarized details of the crimes committed, along with any evidence or known involvement |
| Alert | Any specific intelligence about the fugitive, including potential escape routes or whereabouts |
| Authority | Name and details of the agency issuing the alert, including contact numbers |
| Time-Stamped | Date, time, and any important times related to the individual (e.g., possible hiding spots or escape methods) |
<h2 Safety Tips for the Public and Police
In the wake of a Police Bolo alert, both the general public and law enforcement members are advised to exercise enhanced vigilance:
Public:
- Report all information about the alleged fugitive to the alerting agency or local law enforcement.
- Be aware of their surroundings in high-crime areas.
- Limit travel when a Bolo is active and avoid confrontations if approached by the suspect.
Police :
- Familiarize themselves with the suspect’s description and associate vehicles.
- Keep a heightened awareness and search for the suspect whenever their patrol areas intersect.
<h2 Conclusion
A Police Bolo alert represents a vital tool for law enforcement agencies to streamline fugitive tracking, heighten public awareness, and contain potential risks. These targeted warnings ensure that, whenever possible, the next location of the wanted individual can be quickly identified, which in turn enhances opportunities for successful apprehension.
Stay informed and vigilant!
Note: The guidelines outlined in this article pertain to general practices observed within the United States’ law enforcement. Specific procedures, rules, or regulations governing police bolos may differ by jurisdiction.
