The world behind prison walls is complex, with its own set of rules, codes, and languages. Among these, tattoos hold a significant place, serving as powerful symbols of identity, allegiance, and even criminal history. For correctional officers and others who work within the penal system, understanding the meanings behind these tattoos is crucial for maintaining safety and security. In this article, we will explore 15 common prison tattoos and the meanings they carry, shedding light on the hidden messages that these markings convey.
Tattoos in prison are far more than mere decorations; they are a form of communication, a way for inmates to express their beliefs, affiliations, and experiences. These tattoos can provide valuable insights into an inmate’s background, gang affiliations, and even their intentions. By decoding these symbols, prison staff can better manage and anticipate potential threats, enhancing overall security within the facility.
1. The 1488 Tattoo: A Symbol of White Supremacy
One of the most notorious prison tattoos is the number 1488, which often adorns white supremacist inmates. The number is a combination of two symbols: “14” refers to the “14 Words,” a white nationalist slogan coined by David Lane, and “88” represents the eighth letter of the alphabet, “H,” doubling to signify “Heil Hitler.” This tattoo is a clear indicator of an inmate’s commitment to white supremacist ideology and can signal a potential threat to other inmates and staff.
2. The Cobweb: A Sign of Incarceration
The cobweb tattoo, often inked on the elbow, symbolizes a lengthy prison sentence. The imagery of a spider’s web conveys the idea of being trapped, caught in the system with little hope of escape. This tattoo reflects an inmate’s prolonged confinement and a sense of entrapment within the criminal justice system.
3. The Teardrop: A Mark of Violence or Loss
The teardrop tattoo is one of the most recognized prison tattoos, yet its meaning can vary widely depending on the region. In some areas, it signifies that the wearer has committed murder; in others, it represents a long prison sentence or the loss of a loved one. Understanding the local context is essential for interpreting this symbol accurately and assessing the potential risk posed by the individual.
4. The Five-Point Crown: A Symbol of Gang Affiliation
The five-point crown is a prominent symbol of the Latin Kings, one of the largest Hispanic gangs in the United States. This tattoo, often accompanied by the acronym ALKN (Almighty Latin King Nation), signifies loyalty to the gang and its criminal activities. Recognizing this tattoo is crucial for identifying gang members and understanding the power dynamics within the prison.
5. The Three Dots: Representation of “Mi Vida Loca”
The three dots tattoo, typically placed near the eyes or on the hands, symbolizes “Mi Vida Loca” or “My Crazy Life.” While it is not associated with a specific gang, it reflects a commitment to the gang lifestyle and its inherent dangers. This tattoo is a marker of an inmate who embraces a chaotic and often violent way of life.
6. The Clock With No Hands: A Symbol of Timeless Incarceration
A clock without hands is a powerful metaphor for the timeless nature of imprisonment. This tattoo is often worn by inmates serving long or life sentences, representing the loss of time and the endless nature of their confinement. It serves as a stark reminder of the harsh reality of life behind bars.
7. Aryan Brotherhood Tattoos: Markings of Hate and Violence
Tattoos associated with the Aryan Brotherhood, such as swastikas and SS bolts, denote allegiance to one of the most violent and notorious prison gangs. Members of this gang are often involved in extreme acts of violence, making it critical for correctional staff to recognize these symbols and take appropriate precautions.
8. Norteño Tattoos: Affiliation with Northern California Gangs
Norteño tattoos represent affiliation with the Nuestra Familia gang, which is active in Northern California. These tattoos, often featuring the number 14 (representing the letter N, the 14th letter of the alphabet), indicate membership in this gang and involvement in its criminal enterprises. Understanding these symbols is key to managing conflicts between rival gangs within the prison.
9. La Eme Tattoos: Sign of Mexican Mafia Influence
La Eme, or the Mexican Mafia, is one of the most powerful criminal organizations within the prison system. Tattoos featuring the letter M or the number 13 signify allegiance to this gang. Recognizing these symbols is essential for identifying members of this dangerous group and mitigating their influence within the prison.
10. MS 13 Tattoos: Emblems of Ruthless Criminality
MS 13, a gang originating from El Salvador, is known for its brutality and widespread criminal activity. Tattoos featuring “MS” or “13” are clear indicators of gang membership and involvement in violent crime. These tattoos are often placed in prominent locations, serving as a bold declaration of the individual’s gang affiliation.
11. Playing Cards: Signs of a Gambler
Tattoos depicting playing cards or card suits, such as spades or hearts, indicate an inmate’s affinity for gambling. While they may represent a recreational interest, these tattoos can also symbolize a willingness to take risks—a common trait in the criminal underworld. Understanding this symbolism can provide insights into the inmate’s personality and potential behaviors.
12. EWMN: Representation of Aggression
The acronym EWMN, which stands for “Evil, Wicked, Mean, Nasty,” is a tattoo that conveys a sense of menace and hostility. Often found on the knuckles, this tattoo serves as a warning to others of the individual’s aggressive nature. Recognizing this symbol can help correctional officers identify inmates who may pose a higher risk of violence.
13. Cross on the Chest: A 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 respect within the prison system, and recognizing it can provide valuable insights into the social structure and power dynamics among inmates.
14. A.C.A.B.: An Expression of Anti-Authoritarianism
The acronym A.C.A.B., which stands for “All Cops Are Bastards,” is a tattoo commonly seen on British prisoners. It expresses disdain for law enforcement and authority figures, often found on the knuckles or other visible areas. This tattoo signals defiance and a rebellious attitude, which can impact the inmate’s behavior within the prison.
15. The Five Dots: A Symbol of Incarceration
The five dots tattoo, also known as the quincunx, represents time spent behind bars. The four outer dots symbolize the walls of the prison, while the central dot represents the inmate. This tattoo is a universal symbol of incarceration and is often found on the hand, a visible reminder of the individual’s past.
Conclusion: The Importance of Understanding Prison Tattoos
Prison tattoos are more than just body art; they are a complex language that conveys an inmate’s identity, affiliations, and criminal history. For those working within the correctional system, understanding these symbols is essential for maintaining safety and order. By decoding the meanings behind these tattoos, correctional staff can gain valuable insights into the inmate population, anticipate potential conflicts, and better protect themselves and their colleagues.
