Police Phonetic Alphabet S: What it Means, Usage, and Example

Here’s what Police Phonetic Alphabet S means:

Police Phonetic Letter	Full Form	When to Use	Example in Action
S	Sierra (Intl), Sam (US)	Unit identifiers, plates, building labels	Unit Sam‑17 responding or Sierra Team move to sector 3

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What Does Police Phonetic Alphabet S Stand For?

The police letter S stands for

• Sierra (international use by NATO and aviation)
• Sam (US law enforcement use)

When Is Police Letter S Used in Communication?

Officers use the letter S in these scenarios

• License plate checks like Sam‑Charlie‑524
• Unit call signs such as Unit Sam‑17
• Building or apartment designations for Apartment Sierra
• Evidence labeling like File S in Sierra folder

Example of Police Alphabet S in Action (US – Sam)

Officer 1: Sam 12 responding to a 211 at 5th and Oak
Dispatch: Copy Sam 12 backup is en route

Example of Police Alphabet S in Action (International – Sierra)

Control Center: Sierra Team move to sector 3
Sierra Team: Acknowledged moving to sector 3

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Why Do Police Use Sam Instead of Just S?

Because the letter S sounds like X or F over static on radio channels. Sam provides sharp clarity and avoids mishearings.

What’s the Difference Between Sierra and Sam

• Sam is part of the APCO spelling alphabet adopted by US police services.
• Sierra belongs to the NATO phonetic alphabet used globally by military and aviation.

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FAQ