Gang colors
Gang colors include clothing, accessories, or tattoos of a specific color or colors that represent an affiliation to a specific gang or gang branch.
Types of Colors
Bandanas
The most recognizable form of gang affiliation is based on color. Bandanas come in a wide range of colors and can be paired with other pieces of clothing to represent all colors of the gang.[1] Not only are bandanas an easy way to show gang affiliation they are also easy to remove if the situation calls for it (i.e. if confronted by law enforcement). Gang members are known for wearing bandanas around their face as a mask, or in their pocket, with it sticking out.
Jerseys
Jerseys are common in the gang world for brandishing the colors a member's gang. They contain multiple colors, they represent the city or region where the gang resides, and they are also customizable to show specific numbers or words.[1]
Today
Legal Ramifications
The prevalence of gang colors has declined in popularity over the past few years. In order to crack down on gang related crimes legislation has been passed to increase penalties for crimes committed by gangs or gang members.[2] For example, in some states, if a gang member commits a Class A misdemeanor, the highest level misdemeanor crime, then that offense is classified as a felony because the individual is a member of a criminal street gang.[2] Colors are the easiest way for law enforcement to suspect gang affiliation and are the reason most gang members are identified by law enforcement.
See also
References
- 1 2 "Criminal Street Gangs" (PDF). Gang Community Response Team. Snohomish County Regional Gang Work Group. Retrieved October 15, 2015.
- 1 2 "Gang-Related Legislation—Enhanced Penalties—Sentencing". www.nationalgangcenter.gov. Retrieved 2015-10-19.
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