12 is a street slang term used to refer to police or law enforcement agencies. The term derives from the call sign “1-Adam-12” used on the television series Adam-12, which aired from 1968 to 1975 and followed two LAPD officers, Pete Malloy and Jim Reed, patrolling the streets of Los Angeles in their patrol unit, 1-Adam-12.
Origin
The designation “1-Adam-12” breaks down as:
- “1” – Hollywood Division
- “Adam” – Two-officer unit
- “12” – Unit number
Because the TV series was widely watched, criminals and the general public began using “12” as shorthand for any police presence. This parallels other TV-inspired slang like “5-0” from Hawaii Five-O for law enforcement.
Usage
Over time, “12” spread beyond Los Angeles to become common in urban communities and subcultures. It is often shouted as a warning (“12! 12!”) when officers approach, so fellow criminals can flee or conceal evidence.
Other contexts:
- In online chat and text messaging, typing “12” can signal that police are nearby.
- Some graffiti crews use “12” in tags or throw-ups to mock or taunt law enforcement.
In Hip Hop and Popular Culture
The slang is highly prevalent in hip hop lyrics, with many artists voicing anti-police sentiments using “12.” It appears not only in underground rap but also in mainstream releases, reflecting ongoing tensions between communities and law enforcement.
Notable examples:
- “Fuck 12” by YG – A protest anthem decrying police violence.
- “12” by Migos – References the sudden appearance of police during illicit activities. Migos also dropped a mixtape titled “Fuck 12,” underscoring the term’s resonance in Atlanta’s rap scene.
Lyric Excerpt
“It’s a knock at my front door – 12 kickin’ in my front door –
Now we runnin’ out the back door – Drop the pistol, this the life of that bando.”
Related Slang
- 5-0 – From Hawaii Five-O, also means police.
- The Fuzz, Piggies, Po-Po – Other colloquial terms for law enforcement.
12 Joke
- When I was 11 I turned 13 ’cause I don’t f*ck with 12.