This tattoo can be found internationally, among both American and European inmates. Also known as the quincunx, the four dots on the outside represent four walls, with the fifth on the inside representing the prisoner. These dots differ greatly from the previous tattoo – five dots represents time done in prison.
The three dot tattoo is often created using a stick-and-poke method, requiring very rudimentary tools. It can also carry some religious significance, such as representing Christianity’s holy trinity. This tattoo is typically found on the hands or around the eyes.
The three dots tattoo is a common prison tattoo that represents “mi vida loca,” or “my crazy life.” It’s not associated with any particular gang, but with the gang lifestyle itself.