If you notice someone in your neighborhood sporting distinctive tattoos, keep in mind that certain designs are more than just body art—they can be direct links to gang affiliation. Gang activity, once mostly confined to major cities, has now spread to smaller communities, making it important to recognize these symbols to protect ourselves and our loved ones.

Tattoos often serve as badges of membership for gang members, symbolizing their allegiance and dominance over specific territories. Recognizing these tattoos can be a vital tool in staying aware of potential gang activity nearby. Here’s a rundown of some common gang-related tattoos and their meanings:

• • Neo-Nazi Aryan Brotherhood Tattoos: Members of the Aryan Brotherhood, one of the largest prison gangs, often have the numbers “14” or “88” tattooed on their bodies. The number “14” represents a white supremacist slogan known as the “14 Words,” while “88” stands for “Heil Hitler,” as ‘H’ is the eighth letter of the alphabet. These tattoos signal allegiance to a highly violent gang that operates both inside and outside prisons.
  • Spiderweb Tattoo: Typically found on the elbow, this tattoo is a common symbol among those who have spent significant time in prison. It represents being trapped in the gang life or serving a long prison sentence. The spiderweb design also indicates that the person may have joined a gang while incarcerated, seeking protection or solidarity. While not exclusive to gang members, it’s a well-known symbol of a past involving criminal ties.
  • Teardrop Tattoo: One of the most recognizable symbols of gang culture, the teardrop tattoo is often associated with having committed murder for a gang. The tattoo can appear under the eye and usually signifies a killing carried out in the name of the gang. However, its meaning can vary based on the specific gang and region; in some cases, it can also represent mourning the loss of a loved one or gang member.

@chola.mom The three dot tattoo#mividaloca#threedottattoo#chicanoculture🤎 ✊🏻#mycrazylife#greenscreen#cholamom ♬ I Heard It Through the Grapevine – Zapp & Roger

• Three Dots Tattoo: This tattoo is often seen near the eyes or on the hands and is a symbol of living a gang lifestyle. It translates to “mi vida loca,” which means “my crazy life.” Unlike other gang-related tattoos, the three dots are not linked to a specific gang but represent a general connection to gang culture and the chaotic lifestyle that comes with it.
• Five Dots Tattoo: The five-dot tattoo is a more serious symbol than the three-dot version and usually signifies a long prison sentence. The dots are typically arranged in a quincunx pattern, with four dots forming a square and one in the center, representing the person being trapped within prison walls. This tattoo is often found on the hands or around the fingers and serves as a clear marker of time spent behind bars.
• MS Tattoo: The “MS” tattoo is associated with the notorious MS-13 gang, also known as Mara Salvatrucha. This gang originated in Los Angeles among Salvadoran immigrants and is infamous for its brutal violence, including random attacks on civilians. The “MS” tattoo is often prominently displayed and signifies a strong allegiance to one of the most dangerous gangs in the world.

If you see someone with these tattoos, it’s safest to maintain your distance. Many of these individuals may be involved in illegal activities, and approaching them could be risky. With recent changes such as calls to “defund the police,” gang power has grown stronger, making it harder for law enforcement to maintain control over crime. This reality makes it more important than ever to stay alert and aware of potential gang activity in your community.

Recognizing gang tattoos is just one aspect of staying safe. If you spot someone with tattoos linked to gang membership, it’s wise to report your observations to local authorities. Your vigilance could provide crucial information that aids law enforcement in monitoring gang activities and preventing violence.

It’s important to remember that while tattoos can indicate gang involvement, not everyone who has them is currently active in gang life. Some individuals may have left the gang lifestyle behind but still bear the markings of their past. However, it’s always better to be cautious. Trust your instincts, and if you feel threatened, take appropriate precautions.

By staying informed about gang-related tattoos, you can play an active role in keeping your community safe. Sharing your concerns with law enforcement can help build safer neighborhoods. Awareness and proactive measures are key to preventing crime and protecting those around us from the dangers associated with gang activity. Stay alert, stay safe, and don’t hesitate to report suspicious behavior.