As you walk through your neighborhood, you may come across people with tattoos that catch your eye. While tattoos can be personal expressions of art, it’s important to be aware that some tattoos are associated with gang membership.

Gang activity is not limited to major cities like New York or Los Angeles; it has spread to our own towns. To keep ourselves and our loved ones safe, it is crucial to be able to recognize the signs of gang membership and avoid them.

Gang members often use tattoos to display their affiliation and territorial influence. By familiarizing ourselves with these tattoos, we can better ensure our safety. Here are some common gang tattoos to be aware of:

1. “14” or “88” Tattoo: Neo-Nazi Aryan Brotherhood members often have these numbers as tattoos, symbolizing their association with a large prison gang.
2. Spiderweb Tattoo: This tattoo is commonly seen on the elbow and is often found on individuals who have spent a considerable amount of time in prison and have subsequently joined a gang for protection.
3. Teardrop Tattoo: The meaning of this tattoo varies depending on the gang. In most cases, it represents a murder committed on behalf of the gang.
4. “Three Dots” Tattoo: This tattoo symbolizes a “mi vida loca” (my crazy life) gang lifestyle. Individuals with this tattoo are not affiliated with a particular gang.
5. Five-Dots Tattoo: More severe than the three-dots tattoo, the presence of five dots suggests that the person has served significant prison time.
6. “MS” Tattoo: Associated with the notorious MS-13 gang, founded by Salvadorian immigrants, this tattoo is found on the bodies of its members. MS-13 members are known for randomly attacking innocent people.

If you come across someone with any of these tattoos, it is best to maintain your distance. Recent movements like “defund the police” have resulted in increased gang power, making it challenging for law enforcement agencies to combat rising crime rates. Now more than ever, it is crucial to be vigilant and aware of signs of gang activity. Your alertness might just save lives.

Gangs seek complete control over the lives of their members and can be ruthless. Considering the risks involved, it is in your best interest to steer clear of them entirely. Protect yourself, your loved ones, and maintain a safe environment. Stay safe!