If you notice someone with distinctive tattoos in your neighborhood, it’s worth remembering that some tattoos are associated with gang membership. Gang activity isn’t limited to big cities anymore; it can be present in smaller towns too. Recognizing these symbols can help keep you and your loved ones safe.

Gang members often use tattoos to indicate their affiliation and territorial control. Here are some common gang-related tattoos to watch for:

• “14” or “88”: These numbers are associated with the Neo-Nazi Aryan Brotherhood and indicate membership in a major prison gang.
• Spiderweb Tattoo: Typically found on the elbow, this tattoo often signifies a lengthy prison stay, sometimes with gang affiliation.
• Teardrop Tattoo: Often linked to gang-related killings, though meanings can vary depending on the gang.
• Three Dots Tattoo: This symbol translates to “my crazy life” or “my gang life” and signifies a gang lifestyle, though not specific to one gang.
• Five Dots Tattoo: More severe than three dots, this represents a long prison sentence.
• “MS” Tattoo: Associated with the MS-13 gang, originally formed by Salvadoran immigrants and known for violent crimes.

If you see someone with these tattoos, it’s wise to keep a safe distance. With recent shifts in policing, gang activity is becoming harder to control, making it more crucial than ever to stay alert to potential signs of gang involvement. Recognizing these symbols could help you avoid dangerous situations.