Understanding Prison Tattoos: Decoding 15 Common Symbols and Their Meanings

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Deciphering Prison Tattoos: What 15 Common Symbols Reveal

In the complex world of prisons, tattoos play a significant role in conveying an inmate’s behavior, affiliations, and past experiences. Understanding these symbols can greatly enhance the awareness of correctional staff, contributing to the maintenance of safety and order. Here are 15 prevalent prison tattoos and their meanings:

  1. 1488 Tattoo: Symbol of White Supremacy The number 1488, or its components 14 and 88, is frequently seen on inmates with white supremacist views. This tattoo is derived from a phrase by Nazi figure David Lane and represents a dedication to racial purity and Nazi ideology. Identifying this tattoo is crucial for recognizing potential threats.
  2. The Cobweb: Sign of Extended Incarceration A cobweb tattoo, typically on the elbows, indicates a long time spent in prison. It symbolizes being trapped, much like an insect in a spider’s web, representing prolonged imprisonment.
  3. The Teardrop: Marker of Violence or Loss The teardrop tattoo, one of the most well-known prison tattoos, can signify various things depending on the context. It may represent a lengthy sentence, a history of violence, or the mourning of a lost friend. Recognizing its different meanings helps assess an inmate’s background.
  4. The Five-Point Crown: Latin Kings Symbol Inmates affiliated with the Latin Kings gang often have a five-point crown tattoo. This emblem signifies loyalty to one of the largest Hispanic gangs in the U.S., often accompanied by the acronym ALKN, indicating gang ties and potential criminal activities.
  5. The Three Dots: “Mi Vida Loca” This tattoo signifies a chaotic and unpredictable life. While it is not tied to a specific gang, it reflects a general commitment to the gang lifestyle and its associated risks.
  6. The Clock With No Hands: Endless Time in Prison A tattoo of a clock without hands represents the feeling of endless time during incarceration. Inmates with this tattoo are typically serving long sentences, symbolizing time lost in prison.
  7. Aryan Brotherhood Tattoos: Symbols of Hate Tattoos such as swastikas and SS bolts indicate allegiance to the Aryan Brotherhood, a notorious prison gang. Recognizing these symbols is crucial as members often engage in significant violence.
  8. Norteño Tattoos: Affiliation with Northern California Gangs Norteño tattoos signify membership in the Nuestra Familia gang, representing ties to Hispanic gangs in Northern California. Understanding these tattoos helps in managing potential gang conflicts.
  9. La Eme Tattoos: Mexican Mafia Markings Symbols like the letter M are associated with La Eme, or the Mexican Mafia. Recognizing these tattoos is essential for monitoring their influence and preventing criminal activities.
  10. MS 13 Tattoos: Notorious Gang Identification Tattoos from MS 13 signal membership in a dangerous gang originating from El Salvador. These tattoos often indicate a strong gang influence and a propensity for violence.
  11. Playing Cards: Indication of a Gambler Tattoos of playing cards or card suits suggest an inmate’s gambling tendencies. They can also indicate a risk-taking personality and an unpredictable nature.
  12. EWMN: A Declaration of Hostility The acronym EWMN stands for “Evil, Wicked, Mean, Nasty,” and signifies a menacing demeanor. Often tattooed on the knuckles, it warns of the inmate’s aggressive nature.
  13. Cross on the Chest: Symbol of Criminal Status In Russian prisons, a cross on the chest denotes a “Prince of Thieves,” a high-ranking criminal figure. Recognizing this helps understand the inmate’s social standing.
  14. A.C.A.B.: Anti-Authority Message Standing for “All Cops Are Bastards,” the A.C.A.B. tattoo expresses a strong anti-authority sentiment. It signals a rebellious attitude towards law enforcement.
  15. The Spider: Emblem of Power and Patience A spider tattoo can denote power and patience, often worn by those who see themselves as methodical and strategic. It may also represent a sense of control over one’s fate and circumstances within prison.

Understanding the meanings behind these tattoos enables correctional staff to better manage inmate dynamics, thereby fostering a safer environment within the prison system.

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