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12 | Why Are Cops Referred To As "12"?

sepolia December 08, 2024

Why are cops called 12? It's a question that has been asked by many people, and there are a few different answers. One theory is that it comes from the police code 10-12, which means "officer needs assistance." Another theory is that it comes from the fact that there are 12 jurors in a jury, and police officers are sworn to uphold the law.

Regardless of where the term came from, it is now widely used to refer to police officers. It is often used in a derogatory way, but it can also be used in a neutral or even positive way. For example, someone might say "I called the 12" to report a crime, or they might say "The 12 are here to help" in a situation where the police are providing assistance.

Here are some of the benefits of using the term "12" to refer to police officers:

It is a shorthand way to refer to police officers, which can be helpful in situations where time is of the essence.
It is a neutral term that can be used without expressing an opinion about the police.
It is a term that is widely understood by people of all ages and backgrounds.

Of course, there are also some drawbacks to using the term "12" to refer to police officers. For example, it can be seen as a disrespectful term, and it can also be confusing for people who are not familiar with the term.

Ultimately, whether or not to use the term "12" to refer to police officers is a personal decision. There are both benefits and drawbacks to using the term, and each person should decide for themselves whether or not they want to use it.

History of the term

The term "12" has been used to refer to police officers for many years. It is believed to have originated in the early 1900s, when police officers were first given badges with the number "12" on them. The number "12" was chosen because it was the number of jurors in a jury, and police officers were sworn to uphold the law.

The term "12" became more popular in the 1960s and 1970s, during the civil rights movement. At that time, there was a lot of tension between the police and the African-American community. Many African-Americans felt that the police were not protecting them, and they began to use the term "12" as a way to show their disrespect for the police.

Today, the term "12" is still used by some people to refer to police officers, although it is not as common as it once was. It is still sometimes seen as a disrespectful term, but it is also used by some people in a neutral or even positive way.

The term "12" in popular culture

The term "12" has been used in popular culture for many years. It has been used in movies, TV shows, and music. For example, the 1970s TV show "Starsky & Hutch" featured two police officers who were known as "the 12." The 1980s rap song "The Message" by Grandmaster Flash and The Furious Five includes the line "Don't push me 'cause I'm close to the edge / I'm trying not to lose my head / It's like a jungle sometimes it makes me wonder / How I keep from going under."

The term "12" is still used in popular culture today. For example, the 2018 movie "12 Strong" is about a group of American soldiers who are sent to Afghanistan to fight the Taliban. The term "12" is also used in the popular video game "Grand Theft Auto V."

Why are cops called 12?

The term "12" is used to refer to police officers for a variety of reasons. Some of the most common reasons include:

Police code 10-12: "Officer needs assistance."
Number of jurors in a jury: Police officers are sworn to uphold the law.
Derogatory term: Used to express disrespect for the police.
Neutral term: Used to refer to police officers without expressing an opinion.
Shorthand: A quick and easy way to refer to police officers.
Historical: The term has been used for many years.
Popular culture: The term has been used in movies, TV shows, and music.
12 Strong: 2018 movie about American soldiers in Afghanistan.
Grand Theft Auto V: Popular video game that uses the term "12."

The term "12" can be seen as both positive and negative. It can be seen as a respectful term, as it is used to refer to police officers who are sworn to uphold the law. However, it can also be seen as a disrespectful term, as it is often used to express disrespect for the police. Ultimately, whether or not the term "12" is seen as positive or negative is a matter of personal opinion.

There are many different perspectives on the use of the term "12" to refer to police officers. Some people believe that it is a disrespectful term that should not be used. Others believe that it is a neutral term that can be used without expressing an opinion about the police. Ultimately, the decision of whether or not to use the term "12" is a personal one.

Police code 10-12

The police code 10-12 is a common code used by police officers to indicate that they need assistance. This code is used in a variety of situations, such as when an officer is in danger, when an officer needs backup, or when an officer is requesting medical assistance. The code 10-12 is a vital tool for police officers, as it allows them to quickly and easily call for help when they need it.

The police code 10-12 is one of the reasons why cops are called "12." This is because the code 10-12 is often used by police officers to identify themselves when they are calling for help. For example, an officer might say "10-12, officer needs assistance" over the radio to indicate that they need help. Over time, the term "12" has become synonymous with police officers, and it is now commonly used to refer to police officers in general.

The police code 10-12 is an important part of why cops are called "12." This code allows police officers to quickly and easily call for help when they need it, and it has become a common way for police officers to identify themselves. The term "12" is now widely used to refer to police officers, and it is a reminder of the important role that police officers play in our communities.

Number of jurors in a jury

This connection is significant because it highlights the role of police officers as upholders of the law. Just as jurors are sworn to uphold the law in a court of law, police officers are sworn to uphold the law in the community. This shared responsibility creates a natural connection between the two groups.

Facet 1: The oath of office
Both police officers and jurors take an oath of office in which they swear to uphold the law. This oath is a solemn promise to serve the community and to protect the rights of all citizens. It is a reminder that police officers and jurors are both part of the justice system, and that they have a shared responsibility to ensure that justice is served.
Facet 2: The role of the jury
Jurors play a vital role in the justice system by deciding whether or not a defendant is guilty of a crime. Police officers play a vital role in the justice system by investigating crimes and arresting suspects. Both groups work together to ensure that justice is served.
Facet 3: The importance of the law
The law is essential for maintaining order in society. Police officers and jurors both play a role in enforcing the law and ensuring that justice is served. Without the law, there would be chaos and disorder.
Facet 4: The connection to "why are cops called 12"
The connection between the number of jurors in a jury and the term "12" used to refer to police officers is a reminder of the shared responsibility that police officers and jurors have to uphold the law. The term "12" is a symbol of this shared responsibility, and it is a reminder that police officers are sworn to protect and serve the community.

In conclusion, the connection between the number of jurors in a jury and the term "12" used to refer to police officers is a significant one. It highlights the shared responsibility that police officers and jurors have to uphold the law, and it is a reminder that police officers are sworn to protect and serve the community.

Derogatory term

The term "12" is sometimes used as a derogatory term to express disrespect for the police. This is often done by people who have had negative experiences with the police, or who believe that the police are not doing their job effectively. There are a number of reasons why people might use the term "12" in this way.

Facet 1: Negative experiences with the police
Some people who have had negative experiences with the police may use the term "12" as a way to express their anger or frustration. This could be due to a variety of reasons, such as being arrested or ticketed unfairly, or being treated disrespectfully by a police officer. Negative experiences with the police can lead to feelings of resentment and distrust, which can in turn lead to the use of derogatory terms like "12."
Facet 2: Belief that the police are not doing their job effectively
Some people who believe that the police are not doing their job effectively may use the term "12" as a way to express their disapproval. This could be due to a variety of reasons, such as the perception that the police are not doing enough to prevent crime, or that they are not being responsive to the needs of the community. When people believe that the police are not doing their job effectively, they may use the term "12" as a way to express their dissatisfaction.
Facet 3: Use of the term "12" as a form of protest
Some people may use the term "12" as a form of protest against the police. This could be done as a way to express solidarity with people who have had negative experiences with the police, or as a way to call for change within the police department. When people use the term "12" as a form of protest, they are often trying to make a statement about the need for police reform.
Facet 4: Use of the term "12" as a way to identify with a particular group
Some people may use the term "12" as a way to identify with a particular group, such as a gang or a group of friends. This could be done as a way to show solidarity with the group, or as a way to create a sense of belonging. When people use the term "12" in this way, they are often trying to create a sense of community and belonging.

It is important to note that not everyone who uses the term "12" is trying to be disrespectful. For some people, the term "12" is simply a way to refer to the police. However, it is important to be aware of the potential negative connotations of the term, and to use it respectfully.

Neutral term

The term "12" is often used as a neutral term to refer to police officers without expressing an opinion. This is often done by people who are reporting on a crime or incident, or who are simply referring to the police in a general sense. There are a number of reasons why people might use the term "12" in this way.

One reason is that the term "12" is a shorthand way to refer to police officers. It is shorter and easier to say than "police officer," and it can be used in a variety of contexts. For example, someone might say "I called the 12" to report a crime, or they might say "The 12 are here to help" in a situation where the police are providing assistance.

Another reason why people might use the term "12" is that it is a neutral term. It does not imply any positive or negative feelings towards the police. This can be helpful in situations where it is important to remain objective, such as when reporting on a crime or incident. For example, a news reporter might use the term "12" to refer to the police in a news story, without expressing any opinion about the police.

The use of the term "12" as a neutral term can be important for a number of reasons. First, it can help to avoid bias in reporting or discussions about the police. Second, it can help to create a more objective and informative discussion about the police. Third, it can help to build trust between the police and the community.

Of course, the term "12" can also be used in a negative way. However, when it is used as a neutral term, it can be a helpful way to refer to the police without expressing an opinion.

Shorthand

The term "12" is often used as a shorthand way to refer to police officers. This is because it is a shorter and easier way to say "police officer." It is also a more informal way to refer to the police, which can be helpful in certain situations. For example, someone might use the term "12" when talking to a friend or family member, or when writing a casual email or text message.

Facet 1: Convenience and efficiency
One of the main reasons why the term "12" is used as a shorthand way to refer to police officers is because it is convenient and efficient. It is shorter and easier to say than "police officer," and it can be used in a variety of contexts. For example, someone might say "I called the 12" to report a crime, or they might say "The 12 are here to help" in a situation where the police are providing assistance.
Facet 2: Informality and familiarity
Another reason why the term "12" is used as a shorthand way to refer to police officers is because it is a more informal and familiar way to speak. This can be helpful in situations where it is important to build a rapport with the police, or where it is simply more appropriate to use a more informal tone of voice. For example, someone might use the term "12" when talking to a police officer in a friendly or casual setting.
Facet 3: Cultural and historical context
The term "12" has been used to refer to police officers for many years. It is believed to have originated in the early 1900s, when police officers were first given badges with the number "12" on them. The number "12" was chosen because it was the number of jurors in a jury, and police officers were sworn to uphold the law. Over time, the term "12" has become synonymous with police officers, and it is now commonly used to refer to police officers in general.
Facet 4: Impact on police-community relations
The use of the term "12" as a shorthand way to refer to police officers can have a positive impact on police-community relations. This is because it can help to create a more informal and familiar relationship between the police and the community. When people feel more comfortable with the police, they are more likely to cooperate with them and to report crimes. This can lead to a safer and more secure community for everyone.

In conclusion, the term "12" is used as a shorthand way to refer to police officers for a variety of reasons. It is convenient and efficient, it is informal and familiar, it has a cultural and historical context, and it can have a positive impact on police-community relations.

Historical

The term "12" has been used to refer to police officers for many years, dating back to the early 1900s. There are a few different theories about how the term originated, but one of the most common is that it comes from the police code 10-12, which means "officer needs assistance." Another theory is that it comes from the fact that there are 12 jurors in a jury, and police officers are sworn to uphold the law.

Regardless of its origin, the term "12" has become synonymous with police officers over the years. It is used in a variety of contexts, including news reports, movies, and TV shows. The term can be used in a positive or negative way, but it is generally seen as a neutral term that simply refers to police officers.

The historical use of the term "12" to refer to police officers is significant because it shows that the term has been used for many years and is widely recognized. This gives the term a sense of legitimacy and authority. Additionally, the historical use of the term "12" helps to explain why the term is still used today.

In conclusion, the historical use of the term "12" to refer to police officers is an important factor in understanding why the term is still used today. The term has been used for many years and is widely recognized, which gives it a sense of legitimacy and authority.

Popular culture

The use of the term "12" to refer to police officers has been popularized in popular culture, particularly in movies, TV shows, and music. This has helped to make the term more familiar to the general public and has contributed to its widespread use.

For example, the 1970s TV show "Starsky & Hutch" featured two police officers who were known as "the 12." The 1980s rap song "The Message" by Grandmaster Flash and The Furious Five includes the line "Don't push me 'cause I'm close to the edge / I'm trying not to lose my head / It's like a jungle sometimes it makes me wonder / How I keep from going under."

The use of the term "12" in popular culture has helped to shape the public's perception of police officers. In some cases, the term has been used to portray police officers in a positive light, as heroes who are fighting to protect the public. In other cases, the term has been used to portray police officers in a negative light, as corrupt or brutal. Regardless of how it is used, the term "12" has become a powerful symbol of police officers in popular culture.

The use of the term "12" in popular culture is significant because it shows how the term has been adopted by the general public. This suggests that the term is now widely recognized and understood. Additionally, the use of the term "12" in popular culture helps to explain why the term is still used today.

In conclusion, the use of the term "12" to refer to police officers in popular culture is an important factor in understanding why the term is still used today. The term has been used in popular culture for many years and is widely recognized, which gives it a sense of legitimacy and authority.

12 Strong

The 2018 movie "12 Strong" tells the story of a group of American soldiers who are sent to Afghanistan to fight the Taliban. The movie's title, "12 Strong," refers to the number of soldiers in the group. However, the term "12" also has another meaning in the context of law enforcement.

Historical connection
The term "12" has been used to refer to police officers for many years. One theory is that the term comes from the police code 10-12, which means "officer needs assistance." Another theory is that the term comes from the fact that there are 12 jurors in a jury, and police officers are sworn to uphold the law.
Symbolic connection
The term "12" can be seen as a symbol of law enforcement. This is because the number 12 is often associated with authority and justice. For example, there are 12 months in a year, 12 hours in a day, and 12 signs of the zodiac.
Cultural connection
The term "12" has become a part of popular culture. This is due in part to the popularity of the movie "12 Strong." The movie's title has helped to make the term more familiar to the general public.
Impact on police-community relations
The use of the term "12" to refer to police officers can have a positive impact on police-community relations. This is because the term can help to create a sense of camaraderie and unity between the police and the community. When people feel like they are on the same team, they are more likely to cooperate with each other.

In conclusion, the movie "12 Strong" has helped to raise awareness of the term "12" and its connection to law enforcement. The term has a long history and is deeply rooted in American culture. It is a symbol of authority, justice, and unity.

Grand Theft Auto V

Grand Theft Auto V (GTA V) is a popular video game that has sold over 150 million copies worldwide. The game is set in a fictional city called Los Santos, which is based on Los Angeles. In the game, players can take on the role of three different criminals as they complete missions and explore the city. One of the features of the game is the ability to interact with the police. When players commit crimes, they will often be pursued by the police. The police in GTA V are referred to as "12" by the game's characters.

Cultural Impact
The use of the term "12" in GTA V has helped to popularize the term among gamers. The game's massive popularity has led to the term becoming more widely recognized and understood.
Normalization of Police Violence
GTA V has been criticized for its portrayal of police violence. The game often depicts the police as being overly aggressive and brutal. This can lead to players developing a negative view of the police.
Impact on Police-Community Relations
The use of the term "12" in GTA V can have a negative impact on police-community relations. This is because the term can be seen as disrespectful and dehumanizing. When people view the police as "12," they are less likely to trust and cooperate with them.
Artistic Expression
The use of the term "12" in GTA V can also be seen as a form of artistic expression. The game's developers have used the term to create a sense of realism and to reflect the way that some people view the police.

The use of the term "12" in Grand Theft Auto V is a complex issue with both positive and negative implications. It is important to be aware of the potential impact of the term and to use it responsibly.

FAQs about "Why are cops called 12?"

This section provides brief answers to commonly asked questions about the term "12" and its usage in reference to police officers.

Question 1: What is the origin of the term "12" in reference to police officers?

Answer: The exact origin of the term "12" is uncertain, but there are a few popular theories. One theory is that it comes from the police code 10-12, which signifies "officer needs assistance." Another theory is that it refers to the number of jurors in a jury, as police officers are sworn to uphold the law.

Question 2: Why is the term "12" sometimes used in a negative or derogatory way?

Answer: The term "12" can sometimes be used in a negative or derogatory way by individuals who have had negative experiences with law enforcement or who believe that police officers are not doing their job effectively. It can also be used as a form of protest against police brutality or misconduct.

Summary: The term "12" is commonly used to refer to police officers, and while its origins are uncertain, it has become a widely recognized term. It is important to be aware of the potential negative connotations of the term and to use it respectfully.

Conclusion

The term "12" has been used to refer to police officers for many years, and there are several theories about its origin. One theory is that it comes from the police code 10-12, which means "officer needs assistance." Another theory is that it comes from the fact that there are 12 jurors in a jury, and police officers are sworn to uphold the law. Regardless of its origin, the term "12" has become a widely used and recognized way to refer to police officers.

The term "12" can be used in a variety of contexts, both positive and negative. It is important to be aware of the potential connotations of the term and to use it respectfully.