When you hear coded chatter on police scanner apps, certain words might stand out. “Suspect has entered X-Ray,” or “Meet at X-Ray 12.” If you’re curious about police communication, you’ve probably wondered, what does the police nickname “X-Ray” mean?
Understanding police radio codes and call signs helps decode the hidden language law enforcement uses. This post dives into the origin, meaning, and common uses of “X-Ray” in policing, so you’ll know exactly what’s happening next time you catch it on the airwaves.
Understanding Police Call Signs and Nicknames
Police departments worldwide rely on radio communication to coordinate their activities. Effective radio communication requires brevity, clarity, and standardized codes that reduce errors and misunderstandings, especially in high-pressure situations.
One method law enforcement uses is the assignment of call signs or nicknames to officers, vehicles, or units. “X-Ray” is one such call sign. But to grasp its significance, let’s briefly review how police radio codes typically work.
What Are Police Call Signs?
Call signs are identifiers used by police officers and dispatchers over the radio. These indicators serve several functions:
- Uniquely identify officers, vehicles, or units
- Conceal personal or sensitive information
- Streamline communication, especially under stress or urgency
- Help track and document actions during incidents
These call signs often combine letters from the NATO phonetic alphabet (Alpha, Bravo, Charlie, etc.) with numbers or specific identifiers related to geography, rank, or assignment.
The NATO Phonetic Alphabet in Policing
The NATO phonetic alphabet is a standardized set of code words assigned to each letter of the English alphabet, designed to ensure clear radio transmission. For instance:
- A = Alpha
- B = Bravo
- C = Charlie
- X = X-Ray
Police, military, and emergency responders routinely use this system. Each letter is pronounced as its code word, minimizing misunderstandings during transmissions.
What Does “X-Ray” Mean on Police Radio?
“X-Ray” specifically stands for the letter “X” in the phonetic alphabet and is employed in several contexts within police radio lingo.
Typical Usage #1: Patrol Unit Designations
Most commonly, “X-Ray” is used to distinguish specific patrol units or personnel. For example, a law enforcement agency may assign “X-Ray” to indicate a particular supervisor, district, or team.
A typical call sign might sound like:
- “X-Ray 12, respond to the scene.”
- “X-Ray unit, what’s your status?”
Depending on the department, “X-Ray” might identify a:
- Supervisor or sergeant’s car
- A particular team (like traffic or tactical units)
- A specific police district or zone
- Officers with a certain assignment or shift
Real-World Example:
On the streets of Los Angeles, the LAPD often attaches “X-Ray” to call signs for sergeants. “1-X-Ray-20” could be an LAPD sergeant working in division “1.” This convention helps dispatchers and officers instantly recognize a unit’s role or authority.
Typical Usage #2: Identifying Unmarked or Special Vehicles
Some agencies use “X-Ray” to signal unmarked, undercover, or specialty vehicles. Since these vehicles aren’t always easy to spot or distinguish, the call sign informs officers and dispatchers of the type of unit involved without drawing public attention.
Example radio transmission:
- “X-Ray 71 is in pursuit, requesting backup.”
Here, “X-Ray 71” could be a detective’s car or an unmarked patrol unit differentiating itself from regular marked patrols.
Typical Usage #3: Code for Specific Incidents or Roles
Depending on the region, “X-Ray” might represent specialized roles or emergency response codes. Always check with your local jurisdiction’s radio protocol, as terminology varies.
Why Do Police Use Nicknames Like “X-Ray”?
There are several good reasons for the adoption of code names and call signs:
- Clarity under pressure: “X-Ray” is less ambiguous than “sergeant’s car” or “unmarked unit,” reducing room for confusion in time-critical situations.
- Operational security: Broadcasts over public airwaves risk exposure to civilian scanners; coded language helps protect sensitive operations.
- Quick identification: Officers and dispatchers can instantly assess a respondent’s role, assignment, and authority by the call sign alone.
How to Recognize and Interpret “X-Ray” in Police Scanners or Media
If you listen to police scanners or follow public safety coverage, “X-Ray” can clue you into which type of officer or unit is responding.
Here’s how to decode a typical call:
Example: “X-Ray 23, your location?”
- “X-Ray” = Supervisor or special unit (e.g., supervisor vehicle or special squad)
- “23” = The specific unit, car, or personnel number
Similarly, hearing references to “X-Ray units” in breaking news means supervisors, specialty teams, or unmarked police vehicles are involved.
Related Police Radio Code Words
“X-Ray” is just one of many phonetic alphabet words used in policing. Here are a few others commonly heard on police channels:
- Adam: Patrol car
- Baker: Used for some patrol units
- King: Supervisor or command
- Lincoln: Lieutenant or specific assignment
- Sam: Sergeant
- Tom: Traffic unit
- Union: Utility or special assignment
These call signs may vary across departments, so check local guides or official police communication standards for specifics.
Why Understanding These Codes Matters
Grasping police radio codes like “X-Ray” can provide critical insights for:
- Journalists reporting on law enforcement activity
- Residents concerned about neighborhood safety
- Public safety advocates tracking community incidents
- Curious citizens or hobbyists following scanner broadcasts
Awareness of these terms elevates your understanding of both police operations and media reporting. It also helps demystify law enforcement for the general public, supporting transparency and informed discussion.
FAQ
Can civilians use “X-Ray” on scanners?
Yes. Anyone listening to public police scanner frequencies will hear unit call signs like “X-Ray” routinely. It helps to learn your local department’s radio structure if you want to follow along.
Is “X-Ray” always about the letter “X”?
Most of the time, yes. But check your local agency’s codes; sometimes it denotes a specific unit or function.
Where can I find my local police radio codes?
Many cities publish basic radio communication guides on their police department websites. Forums and hobbyist sites like RadioReference can also help decipher regional practices.
Next Steps and Further Resources
Learning police communication jargon like “X-Ray” enhances your awareness of law enforcement procedures and the challenges first responders face. To go deeper:
- Search for your local police department’s radio code guide online (many departments publish public versions).
- Listen to live police radio streams with caution and respect for ongoing investigations.
- For a broader glossary, check resources like RadioReference.com or official law enforcement manuals.
Greater knowledge of radio codes and call signs can demystify police work and promote public understanding.