(DSG) Glossary of Gang-Related Terms, Activities, and Identifiers

(Detroit & Metro Area Reference)

Glossary Introduction

This glossary provides standardized definitions for gang-related terminology used throughout the site, including group and individual classifications, activities, identifiers, slang, and symbolism. Entries are organized alphabetically to support reference use, cross-checking, and consistent interpretation across individual group profiles and documentation pages.

Terminology included in this glossary reflects usage drawn from law enforcement reporting, academic research, statutory language, media coverage, and documented street culture. Definitions are presented descriptively to explain how terms are commonly applied in reporting and analysis, rather than to assert criminal liability, legal status, or adjudicated conduct.

Many terms appearing across the site—such as street gang, criminal street gang, neighborhood-based gang, youth gang, street clique, set, street group, tagger, tagger crew, or street-oriented group—are used as classification tools rather than fixed legal labels. This glossary establishes a consistent reference framework to clarify how such terms are defined and applied when they appear elsewhere on the site, including in relation to statutory language where applicable.

Identifiers, slang, and symbolism are included to document patterns of self-identification and recognition as observed in graffiti, language, apparel, and other forms of expression. These elements are inherently context-dependent and may vary over time, by location, or between groups. Related material is addressed in Sections III and IV of the glossary.

Terms related to activities and criminal charges are included to clarify how offense-related language is used descriptively throughout the site. Their inclusion is intended to support accurate categorization and understanding, not to allege or establish wrongdoing.

This glossary is intended for research, documentation, and archival purposes. The inclusion of any term, definition, or identifier does not imply criminal guilt, group membership, or legal determination.

I. Group & Individual Classification Terminology

Criminal Street Gang (U.S. DOJ Definition)

A criminal street gang is defined as an ongoing association of five or more persons that has, as one of its primary purposes, the commission of criminal offenses. Members of the association must have engaged in a continuing series of such offenses within the past five years, and those activities must affect interstate or foreign commerce.

Enterprise / Criminal Enterprise (Law Insider Definition)

A group of persons sharing a common purpose of engaging in criminal conduct, associated in an ascertainable structure distinct from a pattern of criminal activity, and with a continuity of existence, structure and criminal purpose beyond the scope of individual criminal incidents.

Fraud Ring (Fraud.net Definition)

A fraud ring is an organized group of individuals who collaborate to commit fraudulent activities—such as identity theft, credit fraud, or online scams—for financial gain. These groups often employ coordinated and sophisticated methods to deceive victims, exploit systems, and evade detection, and may operate locally, nationally, or transnationally.

Hybrid Gang (U.S. OJP Definition)

A hybrid gang refers to a modern type of youth or street gang that does not conform to the traditional structure, rules, or cultural patterns of earlier gangs. Hybrid gangs are often characterized by members of different racial or ethnic backgrounds participating in the same group, individuals claiming affiliation with multiple gangs, unclear or fluid rules and codes of conduct, and the use of mixed symbols, colors, graffiti, or identifiers drawn from multiple gangs—including those that may be rivals. These groups may collaborate in criminal activity, merge smaller gangs into larger entities, and exhibit organizational flexibility that distinguishes their customs and behavior from those of traditional gangs. 

Neighborhood-Based Criminal Street Gang

(Based on FBI “What We Investigate; Gangs” reporting)

A neighborhood-based criminal street gang is a type of criminal street gang whose identity, activity, and internal structure are explicitly tied to a specific geographic area, such as a block, housing complex, corridor, or neighborhood. These groups are typically decentralized, with organization rooted in territory rather than centralized leadership.

Neighborhood-Based Street Gang

(Based on FBI “What We Investigate; Gangs” reporting)

A neighborhood-based street gang is a localized street gang identified primarily by territorial association, regardless of whether criminal charges have been collectively adjudicated. The term is commonly used to describe groups whose activities may range from social presence and informal association to alleged or documented criminal conduct.

Set / Gang (Wikipedia Definition)

In gang terminology, a set refers to a subgroup within a larger gang alliance or affiliation. Sets vary in size, membership, internal structure, and symbols, and may operate with a degree of autonomy while still identifying with a broader gang network. Different sets within the same larger gang may have distinct identifiers or hierarchies and can even compete or conflict with one another. A set is essentially a localized or constituent group within an overarching gang identity.  

Street Clique (U.S. NIJ Definition)

A street clique is a smaller, semi-autonomous subgroup that sometimes operates within a larger street gang or network. Street cliques are frequently block-based and may share a parent affiliation while functioning independently in day-to-day operations, disputes, or activities.

Street Gang (U.S. NIJ Definition)

A street gang is an association of individuals (typically three or more) who collectively identify themselves by adopting a shared group identity. This identity may include a common name, slogan, identifying sign, symbol, tattoo, clothing style, hand sign, or graffiti. The group’s purpose includes engaging in criminal activity, fear, or intimidation to further its objectives. Members often exhibit continuity over time, some degree of organization, and recognition of the group’s identity by both insiders and the surrounding community.

Street Group (U.S. NIJ Definition)

A street group (sometimes used interchangeably with street gang) is an ongoing, organized or informal association of three or more individuals who share a common identity, such as a name, symbol, or territory, and who primarily engage in criminal activity, violence, or intimidation to further their interests. These groups often consist of youth or young adults, operate in urban environments, and may exhibit internal hierarchies or rules.

Street-Oriented Group (Law Insider Definition)

A street-oriented group is a durable, primarily youth-based association—often composed of individuals aged approximately 12 to 25—that spends a significant amount of time in public spaces such as streets, parks, shopping areas, or vehicles, rather than in institutional settings like school or work. These groups frequently engage in illegal or delinquent activities as part of their collective identity and are often associated with specific neighborhoods or territories.

Tagger (Merriam-Webster Definition)

A person who marks surfaces with graffiti

Tagger Crew (U.S. NIJ Definition)

A tagger crew is an organized group of individuals who collaborate to produce graffiti, primarily to promote reputation, visibility, and recognition through the volume or placement of tags rather than for monetary gain or traditional gang-related territorial control. Tagger crews differ from street gangs in focus and motivation, though they may engage in competitive rivalries or “battles” with other crews and may overlap with broader street-gang culture.

Youth Gang / Youth-Gang (U.S. NIJ Definition)

A youth gang is typically defined as a self-formed association of peers—generally aged 10 to 26—with identifiable leadership, a group name, and recognizable symbols. Members congregate to engage in illegal, violent, or delinquent activities, often claim control over specific territory, and demonstrate continuity over time.

II. Terminology Related to Activity, Conduct, and Demographics

(Used descriptively; inclusion does not imply adjudication)

Activities (Merriam-Webster Definition)

The quality or state of being active; behavior or actions of a particular kind.

Adversarial (Merriam-Webster Definition)

Involving two people or two sides who oppose each other : of, relating to, or characteristic of an adversary or adversary procedures.

Affiliated (Merriam-Webster Definition)

Closely associated with another typically in a dependent or subordinate position.

African American (Merriam-Webster Definition)

An American of African and especially of Black African descent.

Alleged (Merriam-Webster Definition)

Accused but not proven or convicted.
Asserted to be true or to exist.
Questionably true or of a specified kind.

Alliance (Merriam-Webster Definition)

The state of being allied; the action of allying.
A bond or connection between families, states, parties, or individuals.
An association formed to further common interests; a union based on shared qualities or relationships.

Aliases / Nicknames (Merriam-Webster Definition)

An assumed or additional name that a person sometimes uses.

Armed Robbery (Britannica Definition)

In criminal law, aggravated form of theft that involves the use of a lethal weapon to perpetrate violence or the threat of violence (intimidation) against a victim.

Arson (U.S. DOJ Definition)

Arson is any willful or malicious burning or attempted burning of a dwelling, public building, motor vehicle, aircraft, or personal property of another, with or without intent to defraud.

Assault (Cornell Law School Definition)

Assault is generally defined as an intentional act that puts another person in reasonable apprehension of imminent harmful or offensive contact. No physical injury is required, but the actor must have intended to cause a harmful or offensive contact with the victim and the victim must have thereby been put in immediate apprehension of such a contact.

Associated (Merriam-Webster Definition)

Joined together often in a working relationship.

Auto / Motor Vehicle Theft (FBI Definition)

Under the FBI’s Uniform Crime Reporting (UCR) Program, motor vehicle theft is defined as the theft or attempted theft of a motor vehicle. A motor vehicle is any self-propelled vehicle designed for operation on land surfaces and not on rails.

Examples include automobiles, sport utility vehicles, trucks, buses, motorcycles, motor scooters, all-terrain vehicles, and snowmobiles. This definition excludes farm equipment, bulldozers, aircraft, construction equipment, and watercraft such as motorboats, sailboats, houseboats, or jet skis. The temporary taking of a motor vehicle by individuals with lawful access is also excluded.

Based (Merriam-Webster Definition)

Having a specified type of base or basis.

Boosting / Shoplifting (Merriam-Webster Definition)

The act of stealing merchandise that is displayed for sale in a retail establishment.

Bootlegging (Merriam-Webster Definition)

To carry (alcoholic liquor) on one’s person illegally. To manufacture, sell, or transport for sale (alcoholic liquor) illegally.

Burglary (FBI Definition)

The unlawful entry of a structure to commit a felony or theft. To classify an offense as a burglary, the use of force to gain entry need not have occurred. The FBI’s Uniform Crime Reporting (UCR) Program has three sub-classifications for burglary: forcible entry, unlawful entry where no force is used, and attempted forcible entry. The UCR definition of “structure” includes an apartment, barn, house trailer, or houseboat when used as a permanent dwelling, office, railroad car (but not automobile), stable, or vessel (i.e., ship).

Coded-Language (Language, Please Definition)

Coded language refers to the use of seemingly neutral terms that implicitly convey identity—often racial or ethnic—and may carry negative or stigmatizing connotations. Documenting the historical development and contextual usage of such terms (for example, “massage parlor” or “inner city”) can be useful in understanding how they have been applied in coded ways. Including this context helps ensure that such language is used only when appropriate and with sufficient explanation.

Commonly (Merriam-Webster Definition)

As a general thing; often in the usual course of events; Usually, Ordinarily.

Community (Merriam-Webster Definition)

The people with common interests living in a particular area.

Contemporary (Merriam-Webster Definition)

Marked by characteristics of the present period; Modern, Current.

Contract Killing / Murder for Hire (Wikipedia Definition)

Contract killing, also referred to as murder for hire, is the act of killing one person on behalf of another in exchange for payment or other consideration. In a contract killing, a person (the “hit-man” or “contract killer”) agrees to commit intentional, premeditated homicide as part of a transaction with another individual who solicits the act. Both the person who carries out the killing and the person who solicits or pays for it may be guilty of criminal offenses under applicable homicide, conspiracy, or solicitation statutes. The term distinguishes these homicides from other forms of murder by the element of payment or agreed compensation for the act. 

Defunct / Inactive (Merriam-Webster Definition)

No longer living, existing, or functioning.
Not active: such as.

Designation (Merriam-Webster Defintion)

A distinguishing name, sign, or title.

Discharging a Firearm / Shooting (Michigan Law Definition)

Discharging a firearm or ‘shooting’ under Michigan law refers to the intentional act of firing a gun at or into a dwelling or other structure that a person knows or reasonably should know is a dwelling or a potentially occupied structure. A person who knowingly or recklessly discharges a firearm at or in such a place may be guilty of a felony, even if the structure is not actually occupied at the time of the discharge. Penalties increase when the act causes physical injury, serious impairment of a body function, or death. The statute generally applies regardless of occupancy and does not apply to peace officers acting in the line of duty or individuals who discharge a firearm in lawful self-defense or in defense of another. Definitions of “dwelling” and “potentially occupied structure” are provided within the statute.  

Dispute (Cornell Law School Definition)

A dispute is a disagreement, argument, or controversy, often one that gives rise to legal proceedings such as arbitration, mediation, or litigation. Parties involved are considered adverse to one another. To dispute is the corresponding verb, meaning to participate in or contest an issue within such a disagreement.

Disruptions of Lawful or Public Meetings (Michigan Law Definition)

Disruptions of lawful or public meetings involve willful and unlawful interference that prevents a meeting from proceeding in an orderly manner, violates established rules of decorum, or disturbs the peace. This may include shouting, refusing to yield the floor, threats, or other obstructive conduct, and is generally classified as a misdemeanor.

Documented (Merriam-Webster Definition)

An original or official paper relied on as the basis, proof, or support of something.
Something (such as a photograph or a recording) that serves as evidence or proof.

Dominant (Merriam-Webster Definition)

Commanding, controlling, or prevailing over all others.
Very important, powerful, or successful.

Drug / Narcotics Distribution (Lawinfo Definition)

Drug or narcotics distribution generally refers to the manufacture, sale, exchange, or transfer of illegal controlled substances. To establish a charge of drug or narcotics distribution, the state must typically prove beyond a reasonable doubt that an individual knowingly possessed a controlled substance and intended to distribute it.

The type and quantity of the substance involved may affect the severity of the charge. Substances classified as more dangerous under applicable law can carry enhanced penalties, and larger quantities are often associated with more severe sentencing exposure.

Drug / Narcotics Possession (Justia Definition)

Drug or Narcotics possession refers to the unlawful knowing or intentional ownership, custody, or control of a controlled substance without legal authorization or a valid prescription. Possession may be considered actual when the substance is found on a person, or constructive when the individual has knowledge of the substance and the ability to exercise control over it despite it not being physically on their person. To establish possession, authorities generally must show awareness of the substance’s presence and control over it. Definitions and penalties vary by jurisdiction.

Drug / Narcotics Trafficking (U.S. DOJ Definition)

Drug or Narcotics trafficking is defined as the cultivation, manufacture, distribution, sale, or smuggling of controlled substances. It is distinguished from simple possession by the intent to distribute, sell, or transport drugs.

Entrenched (Merriam-Webster Definition)

To place within or surround with a trench especially for defense.

Etymology (Merriam-Webster Definition)

The history of a linguistic form (such as a word) shown by tracing its development since its earliest recorded occurrence in the language where it is found, by tracing its transmission from one language to another, by analyzing it into its component parts, by identifying its cognates in other languages, or by tracing it and its cognates to a common ancestral form in an ancestral language.

Extensive (Merriam-Webster Definition)

Having wide or considerable extent.

Extortion (Cornell Law School Definition)

Extortion refers to imposing an action or obtaining something by force or coercion. The crime of extortion does exclude legitimate negotiation methods. One example could be a party negotiating a deal with a contractor; neither party could make a threat towards one another in exchange for something in the contract. A legitimate negotiation tactic might include the idea of “puffing” (which is making something look reasonably more good than it might otherwise be) Under the color of office, a public or private authority may abuse their authority to commit extortion.

Fraud (U.S. DOJ Definition)

Fraud is a broad, non-technical term encompassing intentional deception, dishonesty, or trickery designed to cause financial loss, deprive victims of property, or obtain unauthorized benefits. It includes materially false representations and schemes to defraud.

Frequently (Merriam-Webster Definition)

At frequent or short intervals.

Generally (Merriam-Webster Definition)

In disregard of specific instances and with regard to an overall picture.

Graffiti-Related Vandalism / Vandalism (FBI Definition)

Vandalism is defined as the willful or malicious destruction, injury, disfigurement, or defacement of public or private property without the consent of the owner or person having custody or control. This includes acts such as cutting, tearing, breaking, marking, painting, or covering property with filth.

Graffiti-related vandalism includes unauthorized markings used to assert presence, communicate messages, memorialize individuals, or display identifiers. Such markings may take the form of tags, throw-ups, roll calls, crossed-out rival symbols, or other written or symbolic expressions.

Historical (Merriam-Webster Definition)

Of, relating to, or having the character of history.

Hispanic (Merriam-Webster Definition)

Of, relating to, or being a native of Spanish-speaking Latin America or a descendant of such a person.

Homicide (Cornell Law School Definition)

Homicide is a manner of death, when one person causes the death of another. Not all homicide is murder, as some deaths caused by another person are manslaughter, and some are lawful; such as when justified by an affirmative defense, like insanity or self-defense. 

Influential (Merriam-Webster Definition)

Exerting or possessing influence.

Interaction (Merriam-Webster Definition)

Mutual or reciprocal action or influence.

Intimidation (Cornell Law School Definition)

Intimidation is an act or course of conduct directed at a specific person that causes fear or apprehension. It typically involves coercing or deterring someone from taking an action they are legally entitled to take. Depending on context and intent, intimidation may constitute a civil or criminal offense unless it serves a legitimate purpose.

Intoxication-Related Offenses (Justia Definition)

Intoxication-related offenses involve criminal acts committed while under the influence of alcohol, drugs, or other substances, as well as violations related to the possession or sale of alcohol. Common examples include operating while intoxicated (OWI/DUI/DWI), public intoxication, underage drinking, and unlawful sale to minors.

Jewish (Merriam-Webster Definition)

Of, relating to, or characteristic of the Jews.

Kidnapping (U.S. DOJ Definition)

Kidnapping is the unlawful seizure, confinement, inveiglement, decoying, abduction, or carrying away of a person by force or fraud, often for ransom, reward, or other purposes. Core elements include involuntary restraint and, in many cases, interstate transportation.

Larceny / Theft (U.S. DOJ Definition)

Larceny or theft is the unlawful taking and carrying away of personal property from another’s possession without consent, with the intent to permanently deprive the owner of that property. It encompasses a range of offenses, including theft by deception, embezzlement, and fraud-related takings.

Latino (Merriam-Webster Definition)

A native or inhabitant of Latin America

Localized (Merriam-Webster Definition)

To assign to or keep within a definite locality.

Loiter / Loitering (Merriam-Webster Definition)

To delay an activity with idle stops and pauses.
To remain in an area for no obvious reason.

Loitering & Quality-of-Life Citations (Urban Institute Definition)

Loitering and quality-of-life citations are low-level municipal ordinance violations intended to regulate public behavior. These infractions often target activities such as loitering, panhandling, or unauthorized camping, and are framed as measures to reduce public disorder or nuisances within shared spaces.

Low-Level (Merriam-Webster definition)

Occurring, done, or placed at a low level.
Being of low importance or rank.

Major (Merriam-Webster Definition)

Greater in dignity, rank, importance, or interest.
Greater in number, quantity, or extent.

Minor (Merriam-Webster Definition)

Inferior in importance, size, or degree; comparatively unimportant.
Not having reached the age of majority.

Murder (Cornell Law School Definition)

Murder is when a person unlawfully kills another person. Murder is not the same as homicide because not all homicide is unlawful. Instead, murder is a category of homicide. The precise legal definition of murder varies by jurisdiction. Most states distinguish between different degrees of murder (first, second, and third). Some states use Model Penal Code to legally define murder and the subsequent punishments.

Narrative (Merriam-Webster Definition)

A way of presenting or understanding a situation or series of events that reflects and promotes a particular point of view or set of values.

Notable / Known (Merriam-Webster Definition)

Worthy of note; Remarkable.

Organization / Network (Merriam-Webster Definition)

The act or process of organizing or of being organized.

Particularly / Particular (Merriam-Webster Definition)

In a particular manner; in detail.

Predicate Offense (Cornell Law School Definition)

A predicate offense is a criminal act that serves as a foundation or required element for a more complex or serious offense; it is an underlying crime on which another charge or legal consequence depends. In legal contexts, predicate offenses are the individual crimes that must be established before prosecutors can pursue broader charges—such as racketeering, money laundering, or enhanced sentencing schemes—because those larger offenses are defined by patterns or combinations of underlying criminal acts. The term indicates that one crime predicates (i.e., forms the basis for) another in statutory or case law. 

Predominantly (Merriam-Webster Definition)

For the most part; Mainly

Presence (Merriam-Webster Definition)

The fact or condition of being present.

Prolific (Merriam-Webster Definition)

Marked by abundant inventiveness or productivity.

Prominent (Merriam-Webster Definition)

Standing out or projecting beyond a surface or line.

Public Intoxication (Justia Definition)

Public intoxication is the crime of appearing drunk and disorderly in public. Most states criminalize a drunken appearance in public in order to maintain order and civility in public spaces and to ensure that citizens are protected from individuals who may unwittingly harm others.

Public Record (Merriam-Webster Definition)

A record made by a public officer or a government agency in the course of the performance of a duty.

Purported (Merriam-Webster Definition)

Reputed, alleged.

Racketeering (U.S. DOJ Definition)

Racketeering refers to engaging in a pattern of illegal, organized criminal activity—known as predicate acts—conducted through an enterprise for profit or control. It requires at least two qualifying criminal acts, such as extortion, bribery, trafficking, or fraud, committed within a ten-year period.

Recruitment (Merriam-Webster Definition)

The action or process of recruiting.

Referred (Merriam-Webster Definition)

Subjectively localized in one region of the body though originating in another region.

Reportedly (Merriam-Webster Definition)

According to a report.

Rivalries / Rivals (Merriam-Webster Definition)

The act of rivaling : the state of being a rival; Competition.

Robbery (U.S. DOJ Definition)

Robbery is defined as the taking or attempting to take anything of value from the care, custody, or control of a person by force, threat of force, violence, or by instilling fear in the victim. It is classified as a violent crime and is distinct from theft or larceny.

Sexual Assault (Wikipedia Definition)

Sexual assault refers to any non-consensual sexual contact or behavior that occurs without the explicit consent of the victim. The term encompasses a range of acts, including unwanted touching, forced sexual intercourse, attempted rape, and other actions of a sexual nature carried out through coercion, force, threats, or when the victim is incapable of giving consent due to age, disability, intoxication, or other incapacity. Legal definitions vary by jurisdiction, but all emphasize the absence of voluntary agreement and the violation of personal autonomy and bodily integrity. 

Shorthand (Merriam-Webster Definition)

A method of writing rapidly by substituting characters, abbreviations, or symbols for letters, sounds, words, or phrases.

Short-Term (Merriam-Webster Definition)

Occurring over or involving a relatively short period of time.

Small-Scale (Merriam-Webster Definition)

Small in scope.
Especially small in output or operation.

Street-Level (Merriam-Webster Definition)

Of, relating to, or taking place on the street.

Strong Arm Robbery (KGO Law Firm Defintion)

A form of theft where the accused either causes physical injury or threatens to cause injury to another person. The injury or threat does not need to be severe for it to qualify as strong-arm robbery. Unlike other types of robbery, strong-arm robbery usually does not involve using weapons.

Subset (Merriam-Webster Definition)

A set each of whose elements is an element of an inclusive set.

Summary (Merriam-Webster Definition)

Comprehensive; covering the main points succinctly.

Supplier (Merriam-Webster Definition)

One that supplies.

Symbolism (Merriam-Webster Definition)

The art or practice of using symbols, especially by investing objects, actions, or expressions with symbolic meaning, or by representing intangible or abstract ideas through visible or sensory forms.

Artistic imitation or invention used to suggest immaterial, ideal, or otherwise intangible concepts or states.

Artistic imitation or invention used to suggest immaterial, ideal, or otherwise intangible concepts or states.

Territorial Dispute (Merriam-Webster Definition)

A disagreement about who controls a particular territory.

Territory (Merriam-Webster Definition)

An indeterminate geographic area.

Traditional (Merriam-Webster Definition)

Of or relating to tradition; consisting of or derived from tradition.

Transit Fare Evasion (Law Insider Definition)

Transit fare evasion is the illegal use of public transportation without paying the required fare. It includes intentionally bypassing payment systems, jumping turnstiles, using fraudulent passes, or failing to validate tickets, and is commonly classified as a regulatory violation or petty theft offense.

Urban (Merriam-Webster Definition)

Of, relating to, characteristic of, or constituting a city.

Verified (Merriam-Webster Definition)

To confirm or substantiate in law by oath.

Violence (Merriam-Webster Definition)

The use of physical force so as to injure, abuse, damage, or destroy.

Violent (Merriam-Webster Definition)

Marked by the use of usually harmful or destructive physical force

Weapons Trafficking (U.S. DOJ Definition)

Weapons trafficking involves the illegal diversion, acquisition, sale, or transfer of firearms, ammunition, or explosives from lawful to unlawful markets. It may include cross-border smuggling, straw purchasing, or unlicensed dealing, often supplying criminal groups or networks.

III. Street Gang Identifiers, Slang & Symbolism

(Based largely on NAGIA, “Quick Guide to Gangs,” 2009)

Street Gang Identifiers

Note: This list is illustrative and not exhaustive. Street gang identifiers can vary over time, by location, and between groups, and new forms of visual, linguistic, or behavioral markers may emerge.

Street gang identifiers are visual, linguistic, or behavioral markers used to signal affiliation. These may include:

  • Colors or apparel (e.g., blue bandannas, red shoelaces)
  • Hand signs (e.g., “B,” “VL”)
  • Graffiti symbols or acronyms (e.g., “PBGC,” “7-4”)
  • Tattoos (e.g., “R60 NHC,” five-pointed stars)
  • Linguistic substitutions or slang (e.g., “Cuh,” “Blood”)

Street gang identifiers are context-dependent, may evolve over time, and often vary by set, clique, or geographic location.

IV. Street Gang Affiliation Identifier Overviews

(Based largely on NAGIA, “Quick Guide to Gangs,” 2009)

(Detroit & Metro Area)

Note: This list is illustrative and not exhaustive. Street gang identifiers can vary over time, by location, and between groups, and new forms of visual, linguistic, or behavioral markers may emerge.

Blood-Affiliated Street Gang Identifiers

Blood-affiliated groups in Detroit are typically localized and organized around individual sets rather than a centralized authority. Commonly documented identifiers include:

  • Association with the color red (variable by set)
  • Use of terms such as “Blood” or “Five”
  • Linguistic substitution of “B” for “C” in speech or writing
  • Graffiti crossing out the letter “C”
  • Rival-directed terminology such as “CK”

Graffiti is frequently used to mark territory, signal presence, or communicate rivalry. Criminal activity attributed to Blood-affiliated sets varies by location, period, and individual group.

Crip-Affiliated Street Gang Identifiers

Crip-affiliated groups in Detroit are similarly decentralized and often block-based. Common identifiers include:

  • Association with the color blue
  • Use of hand signs forming a “C”
  • Terms such as “Cuzz” or “Cuh”
  • Linguistic substitutions such as “CC” replacing “CK”
  • Set-specific clothing or sports apparel
  • Tattoos referencing specific sets or affiliations

Graffiti may include rival-directed language such as “B/K.” Activity attributed to Crip-affiliated sets varies widely by clique, geography, and time period.

Gangster Disciple Identifiers

Gangster Disciples in Detroit are associated with the Folk Nation (6). Common identifiers include:

  • Six-pointed star
  • Upward-pointing pitchforks
  • Numerical references such as “6” or “7-4”
  • Phrases such as “Folks”
  • Black, gray, or white apparel (variable by set)

Graffiti frequently incorporates Folk Nation symbolism alongside localized set references.

Vice Lord Identifiers

Vice Lord–affiliated groups in Detroit align with the People Nation (5X) tradition. Documented identifiers include:

  • Five-pointed star and other People Nation symbolism
  • Playboy bunny (left-facing), top hat, cane, champagne glass
  • Acronyms such as CVL, TVL, UVL
  • “VL” hand signs, often oriented to the left
  • Verbal greetings such as “All Is Well”

Graffiti commonly combines People Nation symbols with set-specific identifiers.

Editorial Note

This glossary is intended for descriptive, research, and documentation purposes only. Terminology reflects usage in law-enforcement reporting, academic literature, media coverage, and observed street culture. Inclusion of any term, group, or identifier does not imply criminal guilt, legal status, or adjudicated conduct.

Sources:

*Sources are listed in no particular order. Numerical placement does not indicate priority, authority, or primary-source status.*

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