BOLO
Government & Politics abbreviation · Police
| Stands for | Be on the lookout |
|---|---|
| Categories | Government & Politics |
BOLO stands for Be on the lookout, a police abbreviation.
Alert asking officers, and sometimes the public, to watch for a specific person, vehicle or item connected to a crime, missing-person case or threat. BOLOs are broadcast by radio and circulated as written flyers with photos, descriptions and contact details.
Example: Dispatch put out a BOLO for a white pickup with a ladder rack and a damaged tailgate.
Usage notes
Pronounced "BOH-loh." BOLO has largely replaced APB in everyday police use and is also used by federal agencies, retailers and security teams. A BOLO is narrower than an APB, often aimed at specific units or regions. Agencies sometimes post BOLOs on social media to seek public tips. Variants include ATL (attempt to locate), used for lower-priority searches.
Related abbreviations
More police abbreviations
- ANPR – Automatic number plate recognition
- APB – All-points bulletin
- ASBO – Anti-social behaviour order
- ATL – Attempt to locate
- B&E – Breaking and entering
- BAC – Blood alcohol concentration
- BWC – Body-worn camera
- CCW – Carry concealed weapon
- CEW – Conducted electrical weapon
- CHP – California Highway Patrol
- CI – Confidential informant
- CID – Criminal Investigation Department