Gang-Related Tattoos: What They Mean
Tattoos can be personal art, but some mark gang affiliations or criminal history. These symbols are showing up in more communities, so awareness is important.
“MS” – Stands for Mara Salvatrucha (MS-13), a violent gang.
“14” / “88” – Linked to white supremacist groups. “14” refers to a slogan; “88” stands for Heil Hitler.
Spiderweb – Often on elbows, shows prison time or gang protection inside.
Teardrop – Under the eye; may mean murder or loss of a loved one.
Three Dots – Means “Mi Vida Loca” (“My Crazy Life”); general gang lifestyle symbol.
Five Dots – Represents prison life, with one dot surrounded by four (inmate surrounded by walls or gang).
Why It Matters: Recognizing these tattoos can help with safety and understanding gang influence in your area.
