Allegheny County (PA) Pittsburgh City Narcotics and Surveillance Operations

The City of Pittsburgh Police Department's Narcotics division is based at their Headquarters, 1200 Western Avenue on the North Side. The majority of radio communications takes place over low power simplex (non-repeater) channels. The primary channels are as follows:

SPEC 1 (458.3375, CTCSS 186.2)

SPEC 2 (453.3375, CTCSS 186.2)

SPEC 3 (453.3625, CTCSS 186.2)

PO 12 (458.3625, CTCSS 186.2)

TAC 1 (470.5125, CTCSS 167.9)

The communications that take place over these channels are not nearly as formal as those over the primary dispatch channels. Generally speaking, the SPEC channels are generally used in the same geographical locations as their dispatch channel counterparts.

Dispatch channel PO 1 covers Zones 1 & 2. SPEC 1 is used by Narcotics in Zones 1 & 2.

Dispatch channel PO 2 covers Zones 3 & 6. SPEC 2 is used by Narcotics in Zones 3 & 6. Dispatch channel PO 3 covers Zones 4 & 5.

SPEC 3 is used by Narcotics in Zones 4 & 5. PO 12 is used as needed.

The SPEC channels and PO 12 are very low power, set at a mere 2 watts. Therefore, you will need to make some adjustments to pick up any transmissions.

A scanner capable of using CTCSS is extremely helpful. By inputting the CTCSS and setting the squelch wide open you will definitely pick up more transmissions. However you should limit the number of channels as the scan speed is slowed greatly by setting the squelch wide open.

TAC 1 is also a simplex channel. This channel is most often used in coordination with the Allegheny County Sheriff’s Department to coordinate the takedown of fugitives, suspects with warrants. It is also used for surveillance operations.

There is a technical issue in that the TAC 1 frequency is slightly above 470 MHZ, which is above the upper limit of many of the City of Pittsburgh radios. Aside from the standard unmarked Impalas, there are currently 25 or so undercover vehicles. Of those available units, not all are equipped with radios capable of being programmed with frequencies above 470 MHZ.

There are other frequencies and communication devices in use, but the information in this post should get you moving in the tight direction.

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