In APCO, Association of Public-Safety Communications Officials 10-codes, 10-26 means "Detaining Suspect" or "En Route To Station". It is used to notify dispatch and other units that an officer has taken a suspect into custody and is transporting them to a police station, detention facility, or other authorized location.
Here’s how it might be used in a real-world scenario:
- Officer: "Unit 7, 10-26 with one in custody, en route to the station."
- Dispatch: "10-4, Unit 7. Advise ETA."
In this exchange, the officer communicates that a suspect is detained and being transported. Using 10-26 ensures dispatch is aware of custody status, officer location, and anticipated arrival, which supports coordination, safety, and record-keeping.
Operational Purpose
10-26 is essential for maintaining accurate records of detentions and transport. It allows dispatch to monitor units involved in suspect custody, coordinate backup if necessary, and track resource availability for ongoing operations.
This code is especially important during high-volume calls, multi-unit responses, or when transporting potentially dangerous individuals, as it keeps all parties aware of who is in custody and where they are being taken.
Officer Safety And Coordination
Declaring 10-26 enhances officer safety by informing dispatch and other units of a potentially high-risk situation. It allows dispatch to provide additional support, monitor timing, and relay critical instructions. Units may temporarily use 10-6 (busy) during transport and confirm arrival at the station with 10-23 (arrived on scene/standby) or 10-24 (assignment completed) once the transfer is complete.
Variations And Agency Practices
Some agencies use 10-26 strictly for arrests and transport to jail, while others also apply it for temporary detention, protective custody, or medical transport of subjects. Local protocols may require officers to provide additional details such as number of detainees, type of transport, or ETA upon reaching the station.
Plain-Language Alternatives
Agencies emphasizing plain-language communication may replace 10-26 with phrases such as:
- "Suspect in custody, en route to station."
- "Transporting detainee."
- "Unit is transporting suspect to headquarters."
Related 10-Codes
Codes commonly associated with 10-26 include 10-4 (acknowledgment), 10-23 (arrived on scene/standby), 10-24 (assignment completed), 10-20 (location), and 10-6 (busy). Together, these codes provide a clear framework for custody, transport, and operational accountability.