When walking through your neighborhood, you might come across someone with bold or unusual tattoos. While tattoos have become a common form of self-expression, it’s essential to recognize that certain tattoos can indicate gang membership. Gang activity is no longer limited to major cities—it’s becoming more prevalent in small towns across the country. Knowing how to identify gang-related tattoos is crucial for keeping yourself and your community safe.

Gang members often use tattoos as a form of identification, representing their loyalty, rank, or control over specific territories. These tattoos can act as a warning sign for potential gang activity in your area. Here’s a breakdown of some of the most common gang tattoos and what they signify:

• • Neo-Nazi Aryan Brotherhood Tattoos: Members of the Aryan Brotherhood, a violent prison gang with white supremacist beliefs, often display tattoos with the numbers “14” or “88.” The number “14” represents a white supremacist slogan known as the “14 Words,” while “88” stands for “Heil Hitler,” with ‘H’ being the eighth letter of the alphabet. These tattoos signal allegiance to one of the largest and most dangerous prison gangs in the U.S., which operates both inside and outside correctional facilities.
  • Spiderweb Tattoo: Typically found on the elbow, the spiderweb tattoo is commonly associated with individuals who have spent extended periods in prison. It represents the feeling of being trapped within the prison system and is also linked to gang affiliations formed while incarcerated. Although not exclusive to gang members, this tattoo is a common indicator of a person’s past involvement with the criminal underworld.
  • Teardrop Tattoo: Among the most well-known gang tattoos, the teardrop under the eye is often associated with murder committed for the gang. The tattoo can symbolize a killing carried out on behalf of the gang, but its meaning can vary depending on the region and specific gang. In some cases, it represents the loss of a loved one or fellow gang member, adding layers to its meaning within gang culture.
  • Three Dots Tattoo: This simple design, often found on the hands or near the eyes, represents the gang lifestyle and translates to “my crazy life” or “mi vida loca.” While not tied to any specific gang, it is a symbol of gang culture in general and indicates an individual’s embrace of a chaotic, criminal lifestyle.

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

• Five Dots Tattoo: More severe than the three-dot version, the five dots are usually arranged in a quincunx pattern (four dots forming a square with one in the center). This tattoo symbolizes time spent in prison and is used to indicate solidarity among inmates. It’s commonly seen on the hands or around the fingers, signaling a history of long-term incarceration.
• MS Tattoo: The “MS” tattoo is directly linked to the MS-13 gang, also known as Mara Salvatrucha. MS-13 originated in Los Angeles among Salvadoran immigrants and has since become notorious for extreme violence, including random attacks on civilians. Members often display the “MS” tattoo prominently, indicating a strong allegiance to one of the most dangerous gangs in the world.

If you encounter someone with these tattoos, it’s advisable to maintain a safe distance. Gang members with these tattoos are often involved in illegal activities, and approaching them could be dangerous. Given recent political changes like calls to “defund the police,” law enforcement resources have been stretched thin, making it more challenging to manage gang violence effectively. This reality makes it all the more critical to stay alert to signs of gang activity in your community.

Recognizing gang-related tattoos is a key step in maintaining personal safety. If you spot these symbols, it’s a good idea to report them to local authorities. Your alertness could provide valuable information that helps law enforcement monitor and combat gang activity.

It’s worth noting that not everyone with these tattoos is actively involved in gang activities. Some individuals may have these tattoos as remnants of a past life they have since left behind. However, it’s always better to be cautious and prioritize safety. Trust your instincts, and if you sense a threat, take precautions and avoid confrontation.

Staying informed about gang symbols, including tattoos, can help you understand potential risks in your area. By sharing concerns with law enforcement and the broader community, you contribute to efforts that promote safety and reduce crime. Awareness and proactive measures play a vital role in making neighborhoods safer for everyone.