For those who work in law enforcement, tattoos related to this profession may serve as a sort of armor they can wear into the battle of their daily grinds. For ink addicts across professional and cultural lines, the permanence and display of strength embodied in a tattoo often holds deep meaning.

For law enforcement officers and agents, police tattoos may afford a sort of symbolic protection or represent a figurative badge of honor.

Police tattoos may also be inked as a way to commemorate the sacrifices made by fallen comrades, or perhaps to speak to the enduring pride the wearer takes in their association with the field.

Common police tattoos include badges, handcuffs, the scales of justice, and myriad artistic interpretations of the “thin blue line” known to symbolize the brotherhood between those who consider police work their calling.

The style choices are completely up to the client, as so many things can be done to develop this subject matter into a visually appealing scene. Likewise, placement on the body is also incredibly flexible. Because this is an overall theme and not one specific piece with specific parameters, the possibilities are endless.

Police tattoos work equally well as small, discreet tributes or as large back or chest pieces. Real dedication can be shown with an intricate set of full sleeves.

This tattoo is a great example of a black and gray, American traditional design commemorating the wearer’s time with the Hartford police department. The shading on this piece is well executed and the line work is bold and consistent. The use of negative space for highlights, along with areas of solid, saturated black allows the artist to create contrast and increase definition without the need for the vivid colors usually associated with American traditional tattoos. This simple tattoo will serve as a permanent reminder of the wearer’s respect for the law enforcement community and proudly display his time in service of the community.