The Truth Behind LAPD Detectives' Badges and Insignias: Insights from Bosch and SWAT

Have you ever noticed why an LAPD Detective in the show Bosch often wears a detective insignia sleeve in conjunction with a police officer's badge, whereas in the show SWAT, the same actor, Shemar Moore, wears an insignia that is more representative of his SWAT role without a police officer's badge? This article delves into the reasons behind these visual discrepancies, shedding light on the differences in how these two shows portray law enforcement roles.

The Role of Research and Authenticity in Bosch

Bosch, being one of the most detail-oriented LAPD shows, places a significant emphasis on authentic representation. This dedication to accuracy is evident in numerous aspects of the show, including the attire and insignias of its characters. The costume department must ensure that the characters’ uniforms and insignias align with the rules and regulations of the LAPD. For instance, in real-life LAPD, detectives and police officers have distinct insignias, and these are represented accurately in Bosch.

Shemar Moore, who plays homicide detective Harry Bosch in Bosch, often wears a detective sleeve insignia combined with a police officer's badge. This combination ensures that the audience is aware of his role as a detective while also identifying him as a member of the LAPD.

SWAT: Where Style Meets Purpose

In contrast, the TV show SWAT prioritizes the visual representation and the impact on the audience. SWAT often takes creative liberties with the insignia and uniforms to enhance the dramatic elements of the show. For instance, in real life, uniformed LAPD officers are not permitted to have facial hair, a rule that Shemar Moore adheres to. However, in the context of SWAT, the costume department does not strictly adhere to these rules.

Shemar Moore appeared in SWAT with a goatee, despite the LAPD rule against it. This decision was likely made to make him more recognizable and to emphasize his SWAT role. The costume department may have reasoned that the vast majority of the audience does not fully understand the intricacies of police uniform regulations. Therefore, they focused on creating a general familiarity with the character rather than precise adherence to real-life norms.

Costume Department Priorities

The costume department in SWAT aims to create a general impression that is recognizable to the audience. They do not spend extensive time researching every minor detail of insignias and badges. Instead, they focus on creating a costume that is broadly familiar and aligns with the show's narrative and visual style.

The dedication of the costume departments in both shows reflects the different focuses and priorities of the respective shows. Bosch prioritizes authenticity to strengthen its realism and credibility, while SWAT prioritizes visual impact and the dramatic portrayal of its characters.

Keywords: LAPD Detectives, Badge Accuracy, SWAT Insignia