As you walk through your neighborhood, you may notice people with tattoos that catch your eye. While tattoos are often personal and artistic expressions, it’s important to be aware that some tattoos can indicate gang affiliations.
Gang activity is no longer confined to major cities like New York or Los Angeles—it has spread to communities of all sizes. Recognizing the signs of gang membership, including specific tattoos, can help keep you, your loved ones, and your community safer.
Tattoos are a common way for gang members to display their allegiance and assert control over territory. By learning to identify these tattoos, we can better protect ourselves and stay vigilant.
Here are a few common gang tattoos to be cautious of:
14 or 88 Tattoos: These numbers are often seen on members of the Neo-Nazi Aryan Brotherhood, a large prison-based group. The number “14” refers to the “14 words” slogan associated with white supremacy, while “88” stands for “HH,” representing the eighth letter of the alphabet, which stands for “Heil Hitler.”
Spiderweb Tattoo: Commonly seen on the elbow, this tattoo is often worn by individuals who have spent significant time in prison. It signifies that the person has been incarcerated for a long time and may have joined a gang for protection or as part of their identity within the prison system.
Recognizing these tattoos can help raise awareness and contribute to the safety of your community.
Teardrop Tattoo: The meaning of this tattoo can vary by gang, but it typically signifies that the wearer has committed murder on behalf of their gang or has served time in prison for violent crimes. In some cases, a teardrop tattoo may indicate that the wearer has lost a fellow gang member.
“Three Dots” Tattoo: This simple tattoo, often placed on the hand or near the eye, symbolizes “mi vida loca,” or “my crazy life.” It is typically worn by individuals who identify with the gang lifestyle but may not belong to a specific gang. It represents a life of chaos and danger.
Five-Dot Tattoo: A more severe version of the three-dot tattoo, the five-dot tattoo typically indicates that the person has served a lengthy prison sentence. The five dots often represent a life of struggle and time spent behind bars, symbolizing the harshness of their experiences.
“MS” Tattoo: This tattoo is closely associated with the notorious MS-13 gang, founded by immigrants from El Salvador. MS-13 is infamous for its violent and random attacks on innocent people, and members often display this tattoo to signal their allegiance to the gang.
If you spot someone wearing any of these tattoos, it’s wise to keep your distance. In recent times, the increased influence of gangs, combined with the challenges faced by law enforcement, has made it harder to address rising crime rates.
Remaining alert and aware of potential gang activity is crucial for your safety and the well-being of your community. Your vigilance can play a key role in preventing crime and protecting others.
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