The Mexican Mafia is a powerful prison gang that operates throughout the prison system. Members demonstrate their loyalty by getting tattoos that represent the organization. Other gang members often do these tattoos while in prison or underground.
Three Dots
One tattoo that stands out is the three dots tattoo, instantly recognizable among gang members worldwide. The three dots are often arranged in triangle shapes with various colors, sizes, and designs to represent individual gang members. The meaning behind this tattoo can vary, from describing past experiences or an unfinished journey to symbolizing a change in thoughts or attitudes. Some prisoners also use the three dots tattoo as a religious symbol to show their newfound faith. Instead, it represents a “crazy life” often found on gang members’ hands or around their eyes. In prison, inmates often get this tattoo between their thumb and forefinger to signify the time spent behind bars.
Devil
Mexican mafia tattoos are commonly inked on individuals who have committed serious criminal acts and been sentenced to prison. These tattoos help the gang keep track of these individuals throughout their criminal careers. tattoos also serve as a means of communication between gang members, indicating where someone has been or what they have done. Some gangs even tattoo their members with their street names to signify their completion of membership in the Mafia. Other symbols associated with the Mafia, such as skulls, represent death and violence. Mexican gangs also frequently use crosses as a sign of their involvement in murders. The black hand tattoo symbolizes a mafia or club membership and is reserved for members only. These tattoos represent power, dominance, loyalty, and dedication to the gang or Mafia.
Teardrop
Teardrop tattoos are commonly associated with prison and gang culture. They are often found on the face and represent serving time, humiliation, loss, or mourning. Tattoos serve as a way for criminals to express their commitment and allegiance to their group while also acting as a warning system to identify potential defectors. They compete with other Latin American gangs for membership. tattoos associated with the team typically display symbols like skulls, double skulls, double Ms, and flames within a circle, indicating a transition from the original Mexican Mafia to forming their gang.
MS-13 Initials
Law enforcement officials believe its central leadership is in El Salvador. Members are often directed to kill rival gang members or defectors.The team was founded in Los Angeles by immigrants from El Salvador fleeing a civil war. Tattoos play a significant role in gang culture, serving as a means of communication and identification. Usually, only members and close associates are allowed to have tattoos. Gang members may also display their initials on clothing, serving as both an intimidation tactic and a mark of loyalty. Another recognized gang symbol is the black hand, associated with La Cosa Nostra (Italian mob) and seen as an honor and privilege to carry.
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