City of Allen
Colin, Texas
How we verified this
As of August 2026 RadioReference shows Allen PD Dispatch 1, NCIC, Ops 3, CID and Traffic flagged encrypted on the PAWMCo P25 system while Dispatch 2, Ops 1, Ops 2, Traffic 2, Canine, Events and Car-to-Car are listed in the clear.
Encryption Details
What This Means
This agency encrypts some of its communications while leaving others open. Which channels are affected depends on the operation.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is City of Allen radio encrypted?
Yes — City of Allen's radio system runs on P25 AES-256 encryption. This agency encrypts some of its communications while leaving others open. Which channels are affected depends on the operation.
Can I listen to City of Allen on a police scanner?
Partially. City of Allen encrypts some of its talkgroups while leaving others open, so some channels may still be accessible. Check RadioReference for specific talkgroup status.
Why did City of Allen encrypt their radio?
Ask why, and the answer is usually officer safety, sometimes operational security. What is harder to obtain is any documented case in Colin County where an open channel caused harm. The costs need no such documentation: reporting on other agency response slows down, and mutual-aid coordination gets more awkward, immediately.
Can Colin County reverse the encryption decision?
Yes. Whoever made this call for City of Allen can also unmake it; there's no technical lock-in. The approach that has worked elsewhere combines public-records requests, direct council pressure, and a coordinated local coalition.
What can I do about City of Allen encryption?
Start local: show up when Colin County officials discuss the budget for City of Allen, and ask specifically why full encryption was chosen over a delayed feed or tactical-only approach. File a FOIA request for recordings or policy documents, and connect with others nearby who want the same information — a coordinated ask carries more weight than an individual one.