Wondering what “police code 37” means and how it’s used? This post breaks down everything you need to know—from its origins to its real-world use cases—to help you understand this frequently used law enforcement term.
Introduction
Law enforcement uses a specialized vocabulary that often baffles the general public. Police codes, also known as radio codes or ten-codes, provide officers with a quick, discreet way to share essential information. If you’ve heard “code 37” in a movie, cop show, or police scanner broadcast, you might have wondered what exactly it stands for.
This guide will explain police code 37 in detail. We’ll uncover its meaning, discuss where and how it’s used, and highlight examples of it in action. You’ll finish this article with a clear understanding and plenty of real-world knowledge about this police procedure.
Target Keyword: police code 37
What Is Police Code 37?
Police code 37 is most commonly used across various law enforcement agencies in the United States to indicate a “wanted/stolen vehicle.” When an officer calls out a “code 37” on the radio, they are flagging a specific car as being reported stolen or tied to a criminal investigation. This alert prompts officers to take further steps, such as checking for warrants or detaining suspects associated with the vehicle.
Key facts about police code 37:
- Meaning: Wanted/stolen vehicle
- Usage: Primarily in the U.S., varies by region
- Purpose: Rapid communication about criminally linked vehicles
Why Do Police Use Codes Like 37?
Streamlining Communication
Police codes aren’t just a quirky tradition; they play a critical role in fast, clear communication. Over busy police radios, brevity and accuracy are vital. Codes help officers quickly relay information without giving away details to the public or suspects.
Officer Safety
Using codes can protect officers in the field. For example, broadcasting “code 37” rather than “We’ve found a stolen car” can prevent a suspect from fleeing or hiding evidence if they happen to overhear the communication.
Nationwide Consistency—And Confusion
While many agencies use police code 37 to mean “wanted/stolen vehicle,” it’s important to note not every jurisdiction uses the same codes. Some agencies adopt their own set of codes or ten-codes. However, code 37 remains one of the more commonly standardized terms between police departments.
How Is Police Code 37 Used in Practice?
Step-by-Step Example of a Code 37 Call
- Vehicle Detection
An officer spots a suspicious vehicle, often through routine patrol or via a license plate recognition system.
- Plate Check
The officer runs the vehicle’s license plate through the database. The system returns a hit, marking the vehicle as “code 37.”
- Radio Communication
The officer reports over their radio, “Dispatch, I have a code 37 on Main and 3rd, requesting backup.”
- Response Coordination
Other units may be dispatched to assist. The report remains concise to coordinate quickly and limit public awareness.
- Vehicle Stop and Verification
Officers confirm the status of the vehicle and, if applicable, make arrests or recover the stolen property.
Real-World Usage
- Police Scanner Apps
Many police scanner apps allow civilians to listen to law enforcement channels. If you hear “code 37” called out, it likely means officers have encountered a stolen vehicle or one linked to outstanding warrants.
- Media Reporting
When law enforcement conducts “code 37” operations or announces code 37 successes, they’re referring to criminal cases involving stolen or wanted vehicles.
How Code 37 Impacts Police Work and Public Safety
Quick Recovery of Stolen Property
The code system ensures stolen vehicles can be flagged and acted upon within seconds. This responsiveness increases the chances of recovery and helps deter criminal activity.
Coordination Across Agencies
Because vehicles often travel between jurisdictions, code 37 provides a standardized way for officers from different departments to recognize and respond to alerts about wanted vehicles.
Community Awareness
Public release of code 37 incidents (without sensitive details) keeps communities informed about auto theft trends. This can prompt residents to take steps to secure their vehicles and report suspicious activity.
What to Do if Your Car Is Flagged as Code 37
Steps for the Public
If you discover that your vehicle is missing or has been stolen, contact local law enforcement immediately. Provide your license plate, VIN, make, model, and any distinguishing features. Officers will enter your vehicle into the national crime database, and it will be flagged as code 37.
- Tip: Keep your vehicle documentation updated and accessible to speed up reporting.
If you are stopped by police because your car is suspected to be code 37:
- Remain calm and cooperative.
- Provide identification and vehicle ownership documents.
- Understand the officers are responding to a potential crime and standard protocol is to ensure everyone’s safety.
Are There Other Similar Police Codes?
Absolutely. While code 37 is specific to vehicles wanted or reported stolen, here are a few other commonly used police radio codes:
- Code 6: Stay out of area (investigation in progress)
- Code 4: No further assistance needed
- Code 5: Stakeout
- Code 187: Homicide
Note: Codes vary by state and agency. For the exact code system used in your area, check with your local department or public resources.
The Evolution of Police Codes
With the push for more “plain language” in emergency communications, some police departments have started phasing out traditional codes in favor of straightforward speech. This can enhance clarity during multi-agency incidents and ensure that plain English is used during major disasters.
However, for everyday operations, many law enforcement agencies continue to rely on code 37 and other shorthand communications, especially in radio-dense environments where speed and brevity matter.
Final Takeaways and Resources
Understanding police code 37 equips you with valuable insight into law enforcement operations and public safety communications. The next time you hear “code 37,” you’ll know it refers to a wanted or stolen vehicle, and you’ll recognize the steps police take when responding to such a scenario.
Further resources to explore:
- National Crime Information Center (NCIC) Vehicle Data (https://www.fbi.gov/services/cjis/ncic)
- Your local police department’s website or community outreach officer
- Police scanner apps with glossaries of local codes
Stay informed, stay safe, and don’t hesitate to reach out to local authorities if you suspect vehicle theft or receive a code 37 alert related to your property.