Prison tattoos are a language of their own, etched onto the skin to tell stories of life inside and out of jail. For correctional officers and anyone interested in understanding the undercurrents of prison culture, deciphering these symbols can be crucial. Among the myriad of prison tattoos, the three dots tattoo stands out for its simplicity and widespread recognition. But What Does Three Tattoo Dots Mean?
This seemingly unassuming tattoo carries a weighty meaning, deeply embedded in the prison world. Unlike elaborate designs that might signify gang affiliation or specific crimes, the three dots tattoo is more universal, representing a philosophy and a lifestyle. Let’s delve into the meaning of the three dots tattoo and explore other common prison ink, providing a guide to understanding these silent stories told through skin art.
Decoding Common Prison Tattoos
Beyond the three dots, numerous other tattoos hold specific meanings within the prison system. Recognizing these symbols can offer insights into an inmate’s background, affiliations, and experiences. Here’s a breakdown of some prevalent prison tattoos:
1. 1488
The numerical tattoo 1488, or sometimes just 14 or 88, is a stark indicator of white supremacist or Nazi ideologies. The number 14 refers to the “14 Words,” a white supremacist slogan coined by David Lane: “We must secure the existence of our people and a future for White Children.” The number 88 is code for “Heil Hitler,” as H is the 8th letter of the alphabet. These tattoos, found across various body locations, signal dangerous and hateful affiliations.
2. The Cobweb
A cobweb tattoo typically symbolizes a long prison sentence. The imagery evokes the idea of being trapped, like a spider’s prey caught in its web, or a criminal ensnared behind bars for an extended period. Often found on the elbow, suggesting years spent idly with elbows on a table, it can also appear on the neck. Be wary of colored cobwebs, as genuine prison tattoos are usually black or grey due to limited access to colored inks.
3. Teardrop
The teardrop tattoo is perhaps one of the most widely recognized prison tattoos, yet its meaning is not uniform across regions. In some areas, it signifies a lengthy prison term, while in others, it denotes that the wearer has committed murder. An outlined teardrop can suggest attempted murder or avenging a murdered friend. While popularized by celebrities, the teardrop remains a significant symbol in prison. Inmates sporting a teardrop tattoo without earning it can face severe repercussions.
4. Five-Point Crown
The five-point crown is the emblem of the Latin Kings gang, one of the largest Hispanic gangs in the United States, originating in Chicago. Often accompanied by the letters ALKN (Almighty Latin Kings Nation), the five points represent the gang’s affiliation with the People Nation gang, symbolized by the number five. The Latin Kings have a substantial presence both inside and outside of prison, with roots tracing back to the 1940s. Variations in the crown’s design, such as jewel colors, can hold further hidden meanings.
5. Three Dots: “Mi Vida Loca”
Finally, we arrive at the core of our query: what does three tattoo dots mean? The three dots tattoo is a quintessential prison tattoo embodying “mi vida loca,” Spanish for “my crazy life.” It’s not tied to a specific gang but rather represents the gang lifestyle itself. This tattoo is commonly placed on the hands, often between the thumb and forefinger, or around the eyes.
Beyond its association with a chaotic lifestyle, the three dots tattoo can also hold religious significance, representing the Holy Trinity in Christianity. Its simplicity allows for creation using rudimentary stick-and-poke methods common in prison. The meaning is largely contextual, but primarily, the three dots symbolize an outlaw life, often within the confines of the prison system.
6. Five Dots
Distinct from the three dots, the five dots tattoo, also known as the quincunx, represents time served in prison. The four outer dots symbolize the prison walls, while the central dot represents the inmate within. This tattoo is recognized internationally among inmates in both American and European prisons. Typically located on the hand between the thumb and forefinger, five dots elsewhere on the body may carry different meanings, potentially linking to the People Nation gang.
7. The Clock with No Hands
The clock with no hands is a straightforward representation of “doing time,” specifically a long prison sentence. Inmates serving extended terms might have this tattoo on their wrist, complete with watch straps, mimicking a real watch. The clock face can vary, resembling a wall clock or grandfather clock. While clock tattoos in general exist outside of prison, the handless clock is strongly associated with incarceration.
8. Aryan Brotherhood
Tattoos associated with the Aryan Brotherhood prison gang range from the acronym ‘AB’ to overt Nazi symbols like swastikas or SS lightning bolts. Despite comprising a small percentage of the inmate population, the Aryan Brotherhood is linked to a disproportionately high number of murders within U.S. prisons, making identification of these tattoos critical. Other identifiers include aliases like Alice Baker, the One-Two, or The Brand.
9. Norteño
Norteño tattoos signify affiliation with the Nuestra Familia gang, a Hispanic gang associated with Northern California. Common Norteño tattoos include the word “Norteño,” “Nuestra Familia,” a sombrero, the letter N, or the number 14 (representing N, the 14th letter). The Norteños are rivals of the Sureños (Southern California Hispanic gangs), with a dividing line in Delano, California. They are known for wearing red bandanas and engaging in drug trafficking.
10. La Eme
“La Eme,” or simply ‘M,’ is the symbol of the Mexican Mafia, one of the most powerful and ruthless prison gangs in the U.S. Allied with the Aryan Brotherhood and rivals of Nuestra Familia, La Eme originated not in Mexico but among Mexican-Americans incarcerated in American prisons. La Eme is a Sureño gang, part of the larger affiliation of Southern California Hispanic gangs.
11. MS 13
MS 13, or simply MS or 13, represents the Mara Salvatrucha gang from El Salvador. These tattoos are often placed in highly visible areas like the face, hands, or neck, though they can appear anywhere on the body. Mara Salvatrucha began in Los Angeles among El Salvadoran immigrants and has since expanded across the U.S. and into Canada, involved in activities ranging from drug dealing to human trafficking.
12. Playing Cards
Playing card tattoos, or card suits, generally indicate an inmate who enjoys gambling, both inside and outside of prison. It can also represent a gambler’s view of life as a gamble. In Russian prisons, card suits have specific meanings: spades for thieves, clubs for general criminals, diamonds (often forcibly applied) for informants, and hearts for those seeking prison romance (also potentially forced).
13. EWMN
EWMN is an acronym for “Evil, Wicked, Mean, Nasty.” This tattoo, not tied to any specific gang, simply reflects the disposition of some inmates. Popularized by Robert Mitchum’s character in “The Night of the Hunter,” who had “love” and “hate” tattooed on his knuckles, EWMN and similar knuckle tattoos like “Rock/Roll” or “Stay/Down” denote a tough, rebellious attitude.
14. Cross on the Chest
Predominantly found in Russian prisons, a cross tattooed on the chest symbolizes a “Prince of Thieves,” the highest rank in the Russian criminal hierarchy, typically worn by mob leaders. Russian prison tattoos are rich in symbolism. Bells can represent freedom, while a tiger on the chest signifies aggression towards law enforcement.
15. A.C.A.B.
A.C.A.B. is an acronym common among British prisoners, standing for “All Cops Are Bastards.” While some jokingly claim it means “Always Carry A Bible” to feign regret, it generally signifies defiance and anti-authority sentiment. Often tattooed on the knuckles, A.C.A.B. can also represent a willingness to serve prison time for one’s crew or gang.
Conclusion: Understanding the Language of Prison Tattoos
Prison tattoos are far more than mere body art; they are a complex system of communication, history, and affiliation within a closed world. Understanding what does three tattoo dots mean is just the beginning. By learning to decipher these symbols, we gain valuable insight into the lives, beliefs, and dangers present within prison walls. This knowledge is not only beneficial for correctional staff but also for anyone seeking to comprehend the intricate subcultures that exist within our society.
