The world of corrections is a complex and often dangerous one. Maintaining order within prison walls is a constant challenge, and understanding the subtle cues and visual markers that inmates use to communicate is crucial for staff safety. One of the most powerful and revealing forms of communication within the prison system is the tattoo. These intricate designs, often laden with symbolism, can offer valuable insights into an inmate’s affiliations, beliefs, and even criminal history.
Prison tattoos are more than just decorative art; they are a form of visual language that allows inmates to express their identities, affiliations, and experiences within the confines of the prison system. These tattoos can serve as a badge of honor, a warning to others, or a reminder of their past. For correctional officers, understanding the meanings behind these tattoos can be a crucial tool for maintaining order and ensuring safety.
Let’s delve into the world of prison tattoos and explore some of the most common designs and their associated meanings:
1. The 1488 Tattoo: A Symbol of White Supremacy
The number 1488, or its components 14 and 88, is a notorious symbol of white supremacy, often found adorning the bodies of white supremacist inmates. The number 14 represents the first 14 words of a quote by Nazi leader David Lane: “We must secure the existence of our people and a future for white children.” The number 88 represents the eighth letter of the alphabet, “H,” which stands for “Heil Hitler.” This tattoo signifies a commitment to racial purity and the ideals of Nazism, making it a critical identifier for potential threats within the inmate population.
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2. The Cobweb: A Sign of Incarceration
A cobweb tattoo is a classic symbol of imprisonment, often found on the elbows of inmates. It represents the feeling of being trapped, much like a fly caught in a spider’s web. The cobweb signifies a lengthy prison term and the sense of entrapment within the criminal justice system.
Image Credits: Timeless Tattoos Glasglow
3. The Teardrop: A Mark of Violence or Loss
The teardrop tattoo is one of the most recognizable prison tattoos, but its meaning can vary significantly depending on the region and the inmate’s background. In some cases, it signifies a long prison sentence, while in others, it represents a history of violence or mourning for a lost comrade. Understanding the diverse interpretations of the teardrop is essential for gauging an inmate’s potential risk factors.
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4. The Five-Point Crown: An Emblem of Gang Affiliation
The five-point crown is a prominent symbol of the Latin Kings gang, one of the largest Hispanic gangs in the United States. This tattoo, often accompanied by the acronym ALKN, signifies allegiance to the gang and potential involvement in criminal activities. Recognizing this symbol can help correctional officers identify potential gang members and prevent conflicts.
Image Credits: Gwan Soon Lee Tattoo
5. The Three Dots: A Representation of “Mi Vida Loca”
The three dots tattoo is a ubiquitous symbol within the prison system, representing a life of chaos and unpredictability. While not tied to a specific gang, it signifies a broader adherence to the gang lifestyle and its inherent risks. Understanding the significance of the three dots can help identify individuals entrenched in the criminal subculture.
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6. The Clock With No Hands: A Symbol of Incarceration
The clock with no hands tattoo is a powerful metaphor for the timeless nature of imprisonment. Often worn by inmates serving lengthy sentences, it serves as a stark reminder of the time lost within the confines of the penal system. This tattoo represents the passage of time without the freedom to experience it fully.
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7. Aryan Brotherhood Tattoos: Markings of Hate and Violence
The Aryan Brotherhood is one of the most notorious prison gangs, and its members often sport tattoos that symbolize their allegiance to the organization. These tattoos include swastikas, SS bolts, and other symbols associated with white supremacy and hate. Recognizing these symbols is crucial, as Aryan Brotherhood members are often responsible for a disproportionate amount of violence behind bars.
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8. Norteño Tattoos: Affiliation with Northern California Gangs
Norteño tattoos represent allegiance to Hispanic gangs in Northern California, particularly the Nuestra Familia gang. These tattoos often feature the number 14, which represents the 14th letter of the alphabet, “N,” standing for “Norte,” or “North.” Understanding these markings helps distinguish between rival factions and mitigate potential conflicts within correctional facilities.
Image Credits: Know Gangs
9. La Eme Tattoos: Sign of Mexican Mafia Influence
La Eme, or the Mexican Mafia, is a powerful criminal organization that wields significant influence within the prison system. Its members often sport tattoos that include the letter “M,” representing the organization’s name. Awareness of these tattoos is essential for countering La Eme’s illicit activities and protecting the safety of staff and inmates.
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10. MS 13 Tattoos: Emblem of Ruthless Criminality
MS 13, a notorious gang originating in El Salvador, has a widespread presence in the United States. Its members often sport tattoos that feature the letters “MS” or “13,” along with other symbols representing the gang’s ideology and history. These tattoos serve as a clear indicator of gang membership and the potential for violence.
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11. Playing Cards: Sign of a Gambler
Tattoos depicting playing cards or card suits often indicate an inmate’s affinity for gambling. In addition to recreational activities, these tattoos can symbolize a willingness to take risks and embrace uncertainty, traits often associated with the criminal underworld.
Image Credits: Tattoos Time
12. EWMN: Representation of Aggression
The acronym EWMN, meaning “Evil, Wicked, Mean, Nasty,” is a stark symbol of aggression and hostility. Found on the knuckles of some inmates, this tattoo serves as a warning to others and highlights the individual’s confrontational demeanor.
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13. Cross on the Chest: Symbol of Criminal Authority
In Russian prisons, a cross tattooed on the chest signifies a “Prince of Thieves,” a high-ranking figure within the criminal hierarchy. This tattoo represents authority and power within the prison’s underground social structure. Understanding these cultural nuances is essential for grasping the dynamics of inmate social structures.
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14. A.C.A.B.: Expression of Anti-Authoritarianism
The acronym A.C.A.B., meaning “All Cops Are Bastards,” is a common symbol of anti-authoritarianism, particularly among British prisoners. This tattoo, often found on the knuckles, signals defiance and solidarity with fellow inmates against law enforcement and authority figures.
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15. The Five Dots: Symbol of Incarceration
Distinct from the three-dot tattoo, the five dots, also known as the quincunx, carry a specific significance within the prison subculture. Each dot represents a wall, and the fifth dot represents the inmate themselves, symbolizing time spent behind bars. Understanding the symbolism behind the five dots aids in identifying individuals with extensive prison histories and potential affiliations with criminal organizations.
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While these tattoos offer valuable insights into an inmate’s background and potential affiliations, it’s crucial to remember that they are not always a definitive indicator of an individual’s character or behavior. Context is key. A tattoo may be a relic of a past life, a symbol of a former gang affiliation, or simply a personal expression of art or belief. Correctional officers must use their training, experience, and situational awareness to interpret the meaning of tattoos within the broader context of an individual’s behavior and interactions.
The language of prison tattoos is constantly evolving, with new designs and symbols emerging to reflect changing trends and ideologies within the prison system. Correctional officers must stay informed about these developments to maintain their understanding of the visual cues that inmates use to communicate.
Understanding the language of prison tattoos is a crucial part of correctional officer training. By learning the meanings behind these symbols, officers can enhance their situational awareness, identify potential threats, and better protect themselves and their colleagues. Ongoing training and education are essential to keep up with the evolving nature of prison tattoos and ensure that officers have the knowledge and skills necessary to navigate the complex world of corrections.
Prison tattoos are a powerful form of communication, offering valuable insights into the lives, beliefs, and affiliations of inmates. By understanding the language of these tattoos, correctional officers can enhance their safety, improve their ability to manage inmate behavior, and create a safer environment for all. As the world of corrections continues to evolve, it’s essential for officers to stay informed about the changing meanings of prison tattoos and the complex world of inmate subcultures.
