\nIn the complex world of corrections, understanding inmate behavior is crucial for maintaining safety within prison walls. Tattoos serve as visual markers, offering insights into an inmate\u2019s affiliations, beliefs, and even criminal history.\n
By deciphering the meanings behind these tattoos, correctional staff can enhance their situational awareness and better protect themselves and their colleagues.\n
\n
Here are 15 prison tattoos and their associated meanings:\n
1. The 1488 Tattoo: Symbol of White Supremacy
\nThe 1488 tattoo
\nImage Credits: freetattoodesigns.org
\nThe number 1488, or its components 14 and 88, commonly adorns white supremacist inmates. Originating from a quote by Nazi leader David Lane, this tattoo signifies a commitment to racial purity and the ideals of Nazism. Understanding its significance can help identify potential threats within the inmate population.\n
Read More: Women spends $64,000 on \u2018demonic\u2019 tattoos and body modifications\n
2. The Cobweb: Sign of Incarceration
\nCobweb tattoo
\nImage Credits: Timeless Tattoos Glasglow
\nA cobweb tattoo often indicates a lengthy prison term, reflecting the notion of being trapped, much like prey in a spider\u2019s web. Typically found on elbows, it symbolizes prolonged confinement and a sense of entrapment within the criminal justice system.\n
3. The Teardrop: Mark of Violence or Loss
\nTeardrop tattoo
\nImage Credits: trendfashion2013
\nAmong the most recognizable prison tattoos, the teardrop\u2019s meaning varies regionally. It can signify a long prison sentence, a history of violence, or even mourning for a lost comrade. Recognizing its diverse interpretations is essential for gauging an inmate\u2019s background and potential risk factors.\n
4. The Five-Point Crown: Emblem of Gang Affiliation
\nFive point crown tattoo
\nImage Credits: Gwan Soon Lee Tattoo
\nSported by members of the Latin Kings gang, the five-point crown symbolizes allegiance to one of the largest Hispanic gangs in the U.S. Its presence, often accompanied by the acronym ALKN, serves as a clear indicator of gang affiliation and potential involvement in criminal activities.\n
5. The Three Dots: Representation of \u201cMi Vida Loca\u201d
\nThe three dots tattoo
\nImage Credits: Photo Whiserkino
\nA ubiquitous prison tattoo, the three dots signify a life of chaos and unpredictability. While not tied to a specific gang, it reflects a broader adherence to the gang lifestyle and its inherent risks. Understanding its significance aids in identifying individuals entrenched in the criminal subculture.\n
6. The Clock With No Hands: Symbol of Incarceration
\nClock with no hands tattoo
\nImage Credits: Tattoo Me Pink
\nDepicting a clock without hands, this tattoo metaphorically represents the timeless nature of imprisonment. Often worn by those serving lengthy sentences, it serves as a stark reminder of time lost within the confines of the penal system.\n
Read More: I have the most tattooed privates in the world \u2014 it hurts but I\u2019m brave\n
7. Aryan Brotherhood Tattoos: Markings of Hate and Violence
\nAryan Brotherhood tattoo
\nImage Credits: Media Lib
\nTattoos associated with the Aryan Brotherhood, including swastikas and SS bolts, denote allegiance to one of the most notorious prison gangs. Recognizing these symbols is crucial, as members are often responsible for a disproportionate amount of violence behind bars.\n
8. Norte\u00f1o Tattoos: Affiliation with Northern California Gangs
\nNorte\u00f1o tattoo
\nImage Credits: Know Gangs
\nRepresenting the Nuestra Familia gang, Norte\u00f1o tattoos symbolize allegiance to Hispanic gangs in Northern California. Understanding these markings aids in distinguishing between rival factions and mitigating potential conflicts within correctional facilities.\n
9. La Eme Tattoos: Sign of Mexican Mafia Influence
\nLa Eme tattoo
\nImage Credits: Police Mag
\nLa Eme, or the Mexican Mafia, wields considerable influence within the prison system. Its symbols, such as the letter M, serve as identifiers for members of this powerful criminal organization. Awareness of these tattoos is essential for countering their illicit activities.\n
10. MS 13 Tattoos: Emblem of Ruthless Criminality
\nMS 13 tattoo
\nImage Credits: Wikimedia
\nOriginating from El Salvador, MS 13 tattoos signify membership in one of the most notorious gangs in the U.S. Their presence, often in prominent locations, underscores the gang\u2019s pervasive influence and propensity for violence.\n
11. Playing Cards: Sign of a Gambler
\nPlaying cards tattoo
\nImage Credits: Tattoos Time
\nTattoos depicting playing cards or card suits indicate an inmate\u2019s affinity for gambling. In addition to recreational activities, they may also symbolize a willingness to take risks and embrace uncertainty\u2014a trait prevalent in the criminal underworld.\n
12. EWMN: Representation of Aggression
\nEWMN tattoo
\nImage Credits: Turner
\nThe acronym EWMN, meaning \u201cEvil, Wicked, Mean, Nasty,\u201d conveys a sense of menace and hostility. Found on the knuckles of some inmates, it serves as a warning to others and highlights the individual\u2019s confrontational demeanor.\n
13. Cross on the Chest: Symbol of Criminal Authority
\nCross tattoo on the chest
\nImage Credits: Adimaz
\nIn Russian prisons, a cross tattooed on the chest signifies a \u201cPrince of Thieves,\u201d denoting a high-ranking figure within the criminal hierarchy. Understanding these cultural nuances is essential for grasping the dynamics of inmate social structures.\n
14. A.C.A.B.: Expression of Anti-Authoritarianism
\nACAB tattoo
\nImage Credits: SAS
\nThe acronym A.C.A.B., commonly seen on British prisoners, expresses disdain for law enforcement and authority figures. Its presence, often on the knuckles, signals defiance and solidarity with fellow inmates.\n
15. The Five Dots: Symbol of Incarceration
\nFive dots tattoo
\nImage Credits: My Sarisari Store
\nDistinct from the three-dot tattoo, the five dots carry a specific significance within the prison subculture. Also known as the quincunx, this tattoo represents time spent behind bars, with each dot symbolizing a wall and the fifth dot representing the inmates themselves. Understanding the symbolism behind the five dots aids in identifying individuals with extensive prison histories and potential affiliations with criminal organizations.\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"
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