Why do they call the police the 12?

Why Do They Call the Police the 12?

The police department is often referred to as the "12" or "12th precinct" in many cities, particularly in the United States. But have you ever wondered why they call the police the 12? In this article, we’ll explore the history and reasons behind this phenomenon.

A Brief History of Police Precincts

Before we dive into the "12" phenomenon, let’s take a quick look at the history of police precincts. In the early days of law enforcement, police departments were often organized into separate divisions or precincts, each responsible for a specific geographic area. These precincts were typically numbered or lettered, with the first precinct being the central or main office.

The Origins of the "12"

The term "12" originated in the early 20th century, when police departments began to adopt a system of radio dispatching. In the 1920s and 1930s, police departments started using radio frequencies to communicate with officers in the field. To avoid confusion and ensure clear communication, departments assigned specific frequencies to different precincts or divisions.

The "12" Frequency

In many cities, the frequency assigned to the police department was Channel 12. This frequency was chosen because it was a relatively quiet frequency, with minimal interference from other radio signals. As a result, officers could rely on Channel 12 to communicate with dispatch and other units without worrying about static or interference.

The "12" Becomes a Symbol

Over time, the term "12" became synonymous with the police department. Officers, dispatchers, and the public alike began to refer to the police department as the "12" or "12th precinct." This nickname was often used in radio broadcasts, news reports, and even in everyday conversation.

Why "12" and Not "Channel 12"?

So, why do people call the police the "12" and not "Channel 12"? There are a few reasons for this:

• Convenience: Using the term "12" is simpler and more convenient than saying "Channel 12" every time.
• Tradition: The term "12" has been used for so long that it’s become a deeply ingrained part of police culture and tradition.
• Familiarity: People are more likely to remember and use the term "12" because it’s more familiar and easier to pronounce.

Other Reasons for the "12"

There are a few other theories about why the police department is called the "12":

• Radio Frequency: Some argue that the "12" refers to the specific radio frequency used by the police department, rather than the Channel 12 frequency.
• Precinct Number: Others believe that the "12" refers to the 12th precinct or division of the police department, which may not necessarily be the same as the Channel 12 frequency.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the term "12" is a relic of the early days of radio dispatching and has become a symbol of the police department. While the exact origin of the term is unclear, it’s likely that the "12" refers to the Channel 12 frequency assigned to the police department. Whether you call it the "12" or "Channel 12," the term is an important part of police culture and tradition.

Frequently Asked Questions

• Why do some cities not use the term "12"?: Some cities may not use the term "12" because they have a different radio frequency or dispatch system. Others may have simply chosen not to adopt the term.
• Is the "12" unique to the United States?: While the term "12" is most commonly associated with the United States, it’s not unique to this country. Other countries may use similar terminology, such as "10-12" or "Unit 12."
• What does the "12" stand for?: Unfortunately, there is no one definitive answer to this question. The "12" is simply a nickname or symbol that has become synonymous with the police department.

Table: Police Precincts and Radio Frequencies

Note: This table is not exhaustive and is intended to provide a general overview of police precincts and radio frequencies.