Maintaining security within prison walls requires an understanding of inmate behavior, which is critical in the complex field of corrections.
As visible indicators, tattoos provide information about prison associations, convictions, and even criminal history. Correctional staff can improve their situational awareness and better protect themselves and their co-workers by learning the meaning of these tattoos.
Here are 15 prison tattoos along with the meaning behind them:
1. The 1488 Tattoo: A Sign of White Supremacy
White superior prisoners often wear the number 1488 or its parts 14 and 88. This tattoo, which was inspired by a statement by Nazi leader David Lane, represents a commitment to racial purity and Nazi principles. Awareness of its importance can help uncover any dangers among the prison population.
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2. Cobweb: An indication of detention
A spider web tattoo, which symbolizes being trapped as prey in a spider’s web, often denotes a long prison sentence.
Usually seen on the elbows, it represents long-term incarceration and a sense of powerlessness in the criminal justice system.
3. Tear: A sign of loss or violence
The meaning of the teardrop, one of the most famous prison tattoos, varies by region. It could represent a long prison term, a violent past, or even the loss of a friend. Assessing a prisoner’s background and possible risk factors requires an understanding of his various interpretations.
4. Belonging to the troop symbolized by the five-pointed crown
The five-point crown worn by members of the Latin Kings gang represents loyalty to one of the largest Hispanic gangs in the United States. Its existence, often associated with the acronym ALKN, is a clear sign of gang membership and possible criminal activity.
5. “Mi Vida Loca” is represented by three dots.
Three dots, a common prison tattoo, represent a chaotic and unpredictable life.
Although not affiliated with any gang, he shows a broader commitment to the gang lifestyle and all its dangers. Knowing its importance makes it easier to detect those who are deeply rooted in the criminal subculture.
6. Clock without a hand: Sign of detention
Showing a clock without hands, this tattoo refers to the eternal nature of imprisonment. It is often worn by people serving long sentences and acts as a sobering reminder of their time behind bars.
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7. Aryan Brotherhood Tattoo: Symbols of violence and hatred
SS swastikas and bolts are among the tattoos associated with the Aryan Brotherhood, signifying loyalty to one of the most infamous prison gangs. Since members are often responsible for a disproportionate amount of violence while incarcerated, it is essential to recognize these symbols.
8. Norteño Tattoos: Gang Connections in Northern California
Northern California Hispanic gang loyalty is represented by the Norteño tattoo, which represents the Nuestra Familia gang.
Knowing these indicators makes it easier to identify competing groups and reduces the likelihood of confrontations in prisons.
9. La Eme Tattoos: An indication of Mexican Mafia influence
The Mexican Mafia, or La Eme, has a significant influence on the criminal justice system. Members of this influential criminal group can be identified by their insignia, such as the letter M. It is crucial to raise awareness of these tattoos in order to combat their illegal activities.
10. MS 13 Tattoo: Mark of a brutal crime
Created in El Salvador, the MS 13 tattoo represents affiliation with one of the most infamous gangs in the United States. Their presence, often in prominent places, highlights the gang’s widespread power and violent tendencies.
11. Sign of the player: Playing cards
A prisoner’s appetite for gambling is indicated by tattoos of playing cards or decks of cards. In addition to being recreational activities, they can also represent a willingness to accept uncertainty and risk, characteristics common in the criminal underground.
12. EWMN: Representation of aggression
“Evil, Wicked, Mean, Nasty” or EWMN is an acronym that evokes a sense of danger and hostility. Found on the knuckles of some prisoners, it indicates a person’s aggressive attitude and acts as a warning to others.
13. Pectoral Cross: Sign of criminal power
In Russian prisons, the “prince of thieves”, a high-ranking member of the criminal hierarchy, is recognized by the cross tattooed on his chest. Understanding the dynamics of prisoners’ social structures requires an understanding of these cultural peculiarities.
14. A.C.A.B.: Antiauthoritarianism in speech
The abbreviation A.C.A.B is commonly found on British convicts. Expresses contempt for authorities and law enforcement. His appearance, often on knuckles, conveys resistance and support to other prisoners.
15. Five dots: Symbol of imprisonment
Unlike the three-dot tattoo, the five dots have a special meaning in the prison community. With each dot representing the wall and the fifth dot the prisoner himself, this tattoo, also called a quincunx, symbolizes time spent behind bars. Knowing the meaning of the five dots makes it easier to spot people with long criminal records and possible ties to criminal groups.
Understanding the meanings of prison tattoos is essential for correctional officers and others working in the criminal justice system. These tattoos are not only symbols of personal identity, but also powerful indicators of an inmate’s affiliation, past crimes, and potential threats. By recognizing the meaning of these tattoos, prison staff can improve their situational awareness, better anticipate potential danger, and create a safer environment for themselves and their colleagues.
Tattoos like 1488, teardrop, and five dots can reveal vital information about an inmate’s criminal history or gang affiliation. Other tattoos, such as those associated with specific prison gangs such as the Aryan Brotherhood or MS 13, indicate loyalties that may lead to violence or conflict within the prison.
Even seemingly innocuous tattoos, such as playing cards or a clock without a hand, can have a deeper meaning that indicates the mindset of a prisoner or the length of their sentence. Understanding these symbols is important not only for maintaining security but also for insight into the complex social structure within the prison walls.
Once correctional staff and law enforcement professionals become more familiar with these symbols, they will be better equipped to manage inmate behavior and reduce the likelihood of dangerous encounters. The knowledge of these tattoos ultimately serves as a valuable tool in the ongoing effort to maintain order and security in the prison system.