The “Crips” were founded in Los Angeles in 1969 by Raymond Washington, who is widely recognized as the principal founder of what would become a nationwide street-gang network. The Crips street gang initially began as a local alliance before eventually fracturing into numerous independent sets.

Today, the “Crips” are a massive collection—or “alliance,” as many members may characterize the broader affiliation, particularly within prisons and jails—of both structured and unstructured street gangs across the United States. These groups share elements of a common gang culture, including the use of blue, shared terminology, iconography, symbolism, and ideological rivalries with groups such as the “Bloods”.

Crip-associated terminology can include distinctive linguistic conventions, symbolism, and phrases used in graffiti, written communication, music, and online posts. One commonly documented convention is replacing “ck” with “cc” in certain words, producing spellings such as “bacc” for “back” or “sicc” for “sick.” Other symbolism associated with Crip-affiliated groups can include hand signs and, in some regions, six-pointed stars. Usage and meanings can vary by neighborhood, set, region, and individual. Others include:

Cuh / Cuzz — Terms used by some (if not all) Crip-affiliated individuals as informal forms of address, comparable to words such as “bro” or “dude.”

On the Set / On Crip — A phrase used to refer to a person’s immediate gang territory or affiliation with their set.

On the Dead Homie(s) / DHz — A phrase used by some Crip-affiliated individuals to pay homage to deceased associates or gang members. “DHz” is a spelling sometimes seen in social-media posts.

What it C like — A traditional Crip greeting used among members (“C” replacing “Be”).

What’s Craccin / Watts Craccin Lok — A traditional Crip greeting that can also function as a form of initiating confrontation with rivals by questioning their temperament, readiness, or willingness to engage in a conflict. “Craccin”carries a meaning similar to “What’s going on?,” “What are you about?,” or “Are you ready for us?” “Watts Craccin Lok” is a more formalized greeting used among members of Crip-affiliated street gangs, functioning similarly to “hello,” “what’s up,” or “wassup.” Depending on the context and who it is directed toward, however, the phrase can carry a more confrontational meaning than an ordinary greeting.

Hoodsta — A shorthand term used by some Crips street gang members for “Hood Star,” referring to a respected or reputed member of a particular gang, set, or street clique.

Burner / Blower / Strap / Blicc / Thumper — Interchangeable slang terms used by some Crips street gang members to refer to firearms, ranging from handguns to rifles and shotguns. The term “Street Sweeper” is also used in some Crip-associated slang to refer to a shotgun, particularly a 12-gauge or double-barrel shotgun.

Grip / Cheese / Guap — Interchangeable slang terms used by some Crips street gang members to refer to money or cash, which may be obtained through either legal or illegal means.

Bald Heads / FMJs — A slang term used by Crips street gang members (and their associates) to refer to Full Metal Jacket (FMJ) rounds, which typically have rounded bullet tips resembling a “bald head.” The term appears in gang-related music and street vernacular. For example, Detroit/Inkster-based Rollin’ 60s Crips affiliate rapper FWC Big Key, associated with the “24CashGang,” references a “clip” (slang for a firearm magazine) full of “bald heads” in several songs, including “Debo” and “Milwaukee.” Crips street gang members favor “bald heads” for their reliability in a wide range of firearms. FMJ ammunition is commonly associated with target practice, while Jacketed Hollow Point (JHP) rounds are designed to expand upon impact. In street-gang culture, FMJ rounds are often referenced in connection with firearm reliability, particularly where improper weapon storage and inadequate maintenance can contribute to malfunctions. FMJ ammunition is generally known for feeding reliably in many firearms, although performance depends on the weapon’s condition, design, and ammunition compatibility. Given the Crips street gang long history and extensive presence in American street-gang culture, firearm terminology such as “bald heads” has become part of the slang and lyrical references associated with some members and affiliates.

G-Way / G-Station — A shorthand term used by members and associates of the Crips street gang to refer to local gas stations within or in close proximity to their particular gang’s claimed territory. Such locations may serve as gathering places where members congregate and, according to law-enforcement and community accounts, may also be associated with illegal activities such as drug distribution, primarily marijuana.

Low-Down — A term used by Crips street gang members to refer to “laying low” or keeping a low profile to the point of not being seen or heard, including while committing a criminal act. For example: “We gotta get low-down on them slobs and smash ’em for disrespecting our hood.”

Gangsta / Gangster — A term used to refer to a Crips street gang member and their overall identification with Crip culture. Whether a member is associated with a particular “car” (or card), such as “Gangster,” “Rollin,” “Mafia,” “Hustler,” or “Blocc,” they may still generally identify as a “Gangster” rather than a “soldier.” This terminology can differ across gang cultures; for example, members of Sureño groups may use “soldier” terminology in reference to their broader affiliation with the Mexican Mafia (La Eme).

Extra / Extra’d Out — A term used to describe a member who is particularly theatrical or overt in displaying their Crip identity and culture, often by adhering closely to stereotypical or outdated depictions of Crip culture, such as dressing exclusively in blue or drinking malt liquor.

Whip / Vee / Machine / Striker — Interchangeable slang terms used by Crips street gang members and their associates to refer to motor vehicles (often reported as stolen).

Sto / Store — A shorthand term used by members and associates of the Crips street gang to refer to local corner stores and liquor stores within or in close proximity to their particular gang’s claimed territory. Such locations may serve as gathering places where members congregate and, according to law-enforcement and community accounts, may also be associated with illegal activities such as drug distribution, primarily marijuana.

Dolo — A term used by Crips street gang members to refer to being outside “solo,” or alone, often carrying a weapon and prepared for a potential confrontation.

Deep — A term used by Crips street gang members to refer to roaming an area, whether on foot or in a vehicle, with five or more members together. This is typically done to show a group presence or, according to accounts of gang activity, to commit a criminal act.

Blowed / Zooted / Fully Loaded — Terms used by Crips street gang members to describe themselves or their peers as being extremely intoxicated or heavily under the influence of drugs.

Chipped / Clipped / Bodied / Destroyed / Dropped — Slang terms used by Crips street gang members to refer to the violent killing of an individual or rival gang member. For example: “We just chipped two piss stains” (a derogatory term for members of the Black P. Stones street gang) “up the block, dead homies” (a street-level oath or phrase used in reference to fallen peers).

Drop / Lo / Camp — Terms used by Crips street gang members to refer to a specific location, which could be a house, plaza, street, or other identifiable places. The terms are typically used in the context of locating rivals or identifying a target location for acts of violence or illicit activity, such as robberies or burglaries. For example: “We just got the drop on them piss stains, let’s go pull a skit.”

Drill / Slide / Spin — In Crip culture, these interchangeable terms generally refer to an act of targeted violence, a drive-by shooting, or an aggressive retaliatory action against a rival gang, such as the “Bloods.” Although the term “drill” originated in Chicago street culture, its usage has expanded beyond Chicago in more recent years and has become increasingly prevalent within Crip-related terminology.

Scrap / Fade / Squabble — Slang terms used by members to refer to a street-level fistfight or brawl. Members of the same gang may “fade” each other when conflicts or disputes arise within their particular “set.”

D.P. / Disciplinary Punishment — A term used within Crips street gang culture to refer to internal disciplinary conflicts in which members may be required to face a “D.P.” for failing to meet their gang’s protocols or standards. These situations can arise from a perceived lack of presence, such as not going outside or being inactive, failing to participate regularly with the gang, or violating internal rules. The punishment can reportedly range from a fistfight or “jumping” to, in extreme cases, a potentially fatal encounter.

Battle Scars / Rank — Terms used within Crips street gang culture to refer to permanent tattoos or inked Crips insignia that may signify a member’s status, affiliation, or experience within a particular gang. In some sets, certain tattoos may be more closely associated with highly active or senior members, while newer or less-established members may face restrictions or social pressure surrounding the use of particular identifiers. According to accounts of internal gang practices, disputes over unauthorized tattoos or perceived attempts to claim a higher status can sometimes result in disciplinary action, including a “D.P.,” or pressure to prove oneself through criminal or violent activity.

Scoreboard — A slang term used by some Crips street gang members to refer to ongoing, overtly violent gang warfare, particularly when discussing the number of people killed on opposing sides. For example, if a Crips gang and a Bloods gang were involved in a shooting war in which five people were killed—three of them Bloods members—Crips members might mock their rivals on social media with posts or comments such as, “We up 3–2 on them slobs. Check the scoreboard!” The phrase refers to keeping track of perceived “kills” during an ongoing conflict.

Poke / Bitch — Slang terms reportedly used within Crips street gang culture, particularly in jail or prison settings, to refer to a homemade or improvised knife. “Poke” replaces the word “stab” and refers to the act of using the weapon to “poke” someone, while also serving as slang intended to minimize or disguise the seriousness of the threat. “Bitch” refers to how a person might be perceived as reacting when unarmed and confronted with a knife. For example, a member might say, “People act like a ‘bitch’ when you up the poke on ’em in the county jail, lok.”

Smash(ed) / Smashin(g) / Bashin(g) — Terms used by some Crips street gang members to describe the use of force against rivals or, in some contexts, police. The terminology implies overwhelming or violently dominating an opposing group. For example, a Crip-affiliated social-media post might contain a phrase such as “Trays stay smashin sissies,” referring to 8Tray Crips and using “sissies” as a derogatory reference to the Rollin’ 60s Neighborhood Crips. In that context, the phrase conveys a claim of ongoing violent dominance over the rival group.

Sissies — A derogatory term reportedly used primarily by 8Tray Crips offshoots when referring to members of the Rollin’ 60s Neighborhood Crips (R60NHC), playing off the number “60s” and serving as a rival gang diss.

Tag Wars — Highly volatile graffiti-based conflicts where rival Crip (or “Blood”) sets spray paint over or cross out each other’s identifiers, a practice heavily monitored by law enforcement because it frequently escalates into fatal violence.

Striking Up / Strike Ups — A term used by Crips street gang members to refer to the process and act of gang-related graffiti vandalism. The word “striking” is intended to resemble the motion of applying spray paint, while the phrase coincides with the broader use of “active” to describe an individual’s or gang’s immediate level of street-level activity. In the context of the Crips street gang, being “active” is often associated with criminal operations, including violence, drug trafficking, and other illicit activity.

C-Walkin (Crip Walking) — A specific set of dance moves historically associated with Crips street gang culture and sometimes used as a display of gang pride, affiliation, or status. The phrase may also be used in street slang metaphorically to express pride or satisfaction over an incident involving a gang. For example, a member might disrespect the “Bloods” by saying, “We just C-Walked all over them slobs around the corner; bet they won’t tag our block again.” In this context, “C-Walked” is being used as slang implying that the speaker’s gang physically retaliated against its rivals—potentially through gun violence—rather than referring literally to the dance.

Skit / Play / Lick / Score — These are similarly associated terms that generally refer to earning or obtaining a large sum of money quickly, often through an illegal act, criminal scheme, or risky hustle. Although the usage of each term can vary by context and region, a “skit” is sometimes used more specifically to describe a violent criminal act. For example, members of the Crips street gang might say, “We just pulled a skit on them slobs, dropped at least two of them,” referring to a shooting targeting members of the “Bloods” street gang. By contrast, “play,” “lick,” and “score” generally refer to the acquisition of money or other material gains, rather than violence itself.

Crip Crazy / Loc’d Out — A phrase used within the Crips street gang culture to describe an intense sense of identification, attachment, and dedication to the broader national Crips street-gang network and its associated cultural practices. The expression (often seen in graffiti) conveys a heightened level of loyalty or enthusiasm toward the “Crip(s)” identity, essentially indicating that an individual is deeply committed to, or “crazy” about, the Crips street gang culture and affiliation.

Monkey Suit — A term reportedly used within Crips street gang slang to describe wearing dark-colored clothing, often entirely black, in preparation for or during participation in criminal activity intended to benefit an individual’s immediate gang or clique. The term is reportedly derived from the belief that dark-colored clothing makes an individual less visible at night, with “monkey” referencing the commonly perceived dark coloration of certain monkeys or apes. The expression is therefore associated with nighttime activity, although gang-related criminal activity may occur at any time depending on the nature of the offense.

Khaki Suit / Kaks — A term used within Crips street gang culture to describe the traditional or semi-formal use of Dickies-style workwear, particularly matching work shirts and double-knee work pants, commonly worn in navy blue or desert tan. Although this style of dress has reportedly become less prevalent among some newer generations, it has historically been associated with a formal or ceremonial dress code within portions of Crip culture. The term also reflects the use of the word “Gangster” as a self-descriptive identity among some (if not all) Crip-affiliated individuals, referring to members of an organized criminal group who engage in unlawful activity for money, status, or power. Some individuals have historically drawn comparisons between their organizational structure and that of the Mafia, or La Cosa Nostra, while the “suit” in this street-level cultural context is represented by the practical Dickies workwear rather than conventional formal attire. The outfit may be worn for significant events, gatherings, or other occasions associated with gang affiliation.

Chuccs — A shorthand for Chuck Taylor sneakers, also known as Converse sneakers. “Chuccs” (as spelled in Crip-culture) are a traditional style of footwear associated with Crips street-gang culture and are often paired with a matching Dickies outfit, commonly referred to as a “Khaki Suit” or “Kaks.” The combination is colloquially known as “Chuccs and Kaks” within parts of the broader national Crips street-gang network. Other sneakers and footwear historically associated with the “Khaki Suit” include Air Max 95s, Nike Cortez, and Timberland boots.

Hood Day / Set Day — Terms used within Crips street gang culture to describe a specific annual date designated by a local neighborhood, Crip-affiliated gang, or “set” to commemorate its territory, honor deceased members, and reinforce collective identity and affiliation. The date is often selected because its numerical representation corresponds to numbers associated with the gang or set’s name or identity. For example, the Rollin’ 60s Neighborhood Crips have been associated with June 10 (6/10), which is sometimes expressed through the phrase “Six Times Ten” or “6×10,” corresponding numerically to 60. Observances may include neighborhood block parties, cookouts, social gatherings, and memorial tributes for deceased members. Participants may also wear colors, clothing styles such as “Khaki Suits,” or other symbols associated with their particular neighborhood, block, or clique, including customized or airbrushed designs on clothing.

SixOwe — A nickname associated with the Rollin’ 60s Neighborhood Crips, a prominent subset of the broader Crips street-gang network.

8Tray — A nickname associated with the Eight Trey Gangster Crips, also referred to as “Trays” or “Eight Treys.” The Eight Trey (or “Tray”) Gangster Crips are a nationally recognized violent subset of the broader Crips street-gang network.

Naybahood — A stylized spelling of Neighborhood, commonly associated with the Neighborhood Crips alliance or affiliated sets.

LOC / LOK / LOCSTA — Terms that can be used within Crip-associated contexts to refer to members or associates. “Loc” is sometimes given various backronyms, including “Loyal Outstanding Crip” and “Love Only Crips,” although these explanations are not necessarily universal. “Lok” may appear in written or online communication as a form of address. “Locsta” can be used to describe someone perceived as strongly committed to Crip affiliation.

HardHead / HardBody — A term referring to an individual who is extremely stubborn or obstinate and refuses to change their mind, follow instructions, or defer to their elders within the gang. The term can also describe an elite or hardened soldier within the gang—someone regarded as particularly tough, disciplined, or deeply committed to the gang’s Crip culture and expectations.

Down for the Set — A phrase describing a person perceived as highly committed or loyal to their particular gang set.

MOVIN GANG — A phrase associated with the Gangster Crips alliance. Within some Crip-associated contexts, it is used to express strong Gangster Crip identity and loyalty (“ALL GAS NO BREAKS”).

OK / NappK — Terms used as derogatory or hostile references toward the Rollin’ Neighborhood Crips or Neighborhood Crips, respectively. Meanings and usage can vary by group and region (“OweKilla,” “NappyHead Killa”).

3K / TrampK / Tr3mpK — Derogatory or hostile terms directed toward Gangster Crips, sometimes referred to as “Treys” or “Trays.”

Slob — A derogatory slang term used by members of the Crips street gang to disrespect and insult their ideological rivals, the “Bloods.” The term serves as a direct counter to the Bloods’ derogatory term for Crips: “crab.” In-person, using either insult can be considered a serious provocation and may escalate into armed or unarmed gang violence. However, within Crip culture, the term “crab” may also be used—or tolerated—when directed at rival Crip-affiliated groups, although this practice is not widespread across all sets. For example, Gangster Crips (3X/Movin Gang) may tolerate Bloods-affiliated members, particularly in Los Angeles through the unofficial “SMG” alliance, dissing neighborhood Crips (2X/Rollin Gang) as “crabs” in musical tracks, graffiti disses, and social media posts. This reflects the depth of hostility between certain rival groups, where animosity toward a particular set can supersede broader Crip-versus-Blood rivalries. In such cases, even a traditionally derogatory term does not necessarily unite Crip-affiliated sets under a common banner against their outside rivals.

Mark / Buster / Goofy — These are terms—sometimes grouped together in street slang as equivalent insults—that are often used to describe someone who is viewed by Crips street-gang members as physically or mentally weak, gullible, soft, an easy target, or someone who can be easily taken advantage of.

Tray / Trey / Trays — Terms associated with the number three (3) and, by extension, with the Gangster Crips. “C” is the third letter of the alphabet, and “Tray/Trey” can therefore carry Crip-associated meaning in certain contexts.

RICH ROLLIN — A phrase associated particularly with some Rollin’ Neighborhood Crips, including the Rollin’ 60s, and used to express wealth, status, or affiliation.

On Rollin’ — A phrase used by some members of Rollin’ Neighborhood Crip sets to emphasize a statement, claim, or oath connected to their affiliation.

On Gangsta — A phrase used by some Gangster Crip members to emphasize the seriousness or authenticity of a statement or claim made in connection with their affiliation.

Rip Rida — A term used as shorthand for “Crip Rider,” referring to an individual who is deeply devoted to their gang’s interests and is willing to “ride” for their gang at any given moment. To “ride” generally means to participate in activities—including criminal activity—that are perceived as furthering the gang’s influence, interests, or status.

FLY BLUE — A phrase associated with wearing blue clothing or blue bandannas, reflecting a color traditionally associated with Crip identity. Color symbolism varies by location and individual set.

Furthermore, when it comes to Crips street-gang terminology, the vast majority of Crips members do not recognize or acknowledge the acronym “Community Revolution In Progress.” This is largely because the concept of a “revolution” does not represent an established principle within traditional Crips street-gang culture or ideology. Some older members, particularly those from Los Angeles, may instead reinterpret the name “Crip” as “Community Resources For (an) Independent People,” as referenced in Eight-Tray Gangster: The Making of a Crip, a 1993 documentary directed by Thomas Lee Wright. However, this was a later attempt at changing their public image and was never the original meaning of the name. Traditionally, “Crip” has no distinct, universally accepted meaning as an acronym. Historical accounts indicate that the name evolved from “Cribs” to “Crips,” a transition discussed by nationally recognized founding member Stanley “Tookie” Williams, among others.

Accounts concerning the gang’s origins offer different explanations for how the name came about. According to Craig Monson and other accounts of the gang’s naming, Raymond Washington—the principal founder of the Crips street gang—was previously associated with a Los Angeles-based street gang known as the Avenues, which Monson led. During that period, Washington reportedly became involved in a conflict with Monson and his younger brother over a girl.

In 2014, Zach Fortier interviewed Derard Barton, Raymond Washington’s half-brother, who discussed his understanding of Washington’s motivations for forming the Crips. During the interview, Barton described their brother Reggie as a popular musician at Fremont High School. In 1969, Reggie was voted homecoming king, while the homecoming queen was reportedly Craig Monson’s girlfriend. According to Barton’s account, Monson became jealous of Reggie and threatened him with a gun. This angered Washington’s brother, Ronald Joe, who attacked Monson, while Washington attacked Monson’s younger brother. Following the incident, Washington left the Avenues, declaring, “Fuck the Avenues. I’m gonna start my own gang.”

In a separate YouTube interview with KevMacVideos, Craig Monson offered his account of how the name “Crips” originated. According to Monson, after Washington announced his intention to start his own gang, Monson asked him, “What are you gonna call it, you little crip(ple)?” Monson explained that he used the term because Washington reportedly walked with a limp as part of a distinctive, stylized walk. According to Monson, Washington embraced the insult and responded, “That’s what I’ma call it. The Crips.”

Regardless of which account of the naming process is accepted, the claim that “Crip” is an acronym is not supported by the traditional origin story. Although various sources have circulated alternative expansions, such as “Community Revolution In Progress,” these interpretations should be distinguished from the historical accounts describing the name’s evolution from “Cribs” to “Crips.”

National “Crips” street gang membership has been estimated at approximately 30,000 to 35,000 members. Although the Crips originated in the Los Angeles metropolitan area, Crip-affiliated street gangs eventually spread throughout the Midwest, East Coast, South, and other regions of the United States. Significant regional concentrations developed in places such as North Carolina, Minnesota—including Minneapolis, Michigan—including Detroit and Flint—Ohio—including Columbus and Toledo—as well as New Jersey and New York.

Crips street gangs outside California have often developed more adaptable or hybridized identities based on local street and prison culture. During the expansion of Crip-affiliated street gangs throughout the Midwest, East Coast, and South, local sets frequently adapted their practices to existing regional gang structures rather than strictly following Los Angeles neighborhood politics. As a result, regional Crips street gangs may place greater emphasis on local alliances, prison politics, and relationships with other established gangs than on the specific 2X-versus-3X dynamics associated with Los Angeles.

Much of this expansion occurred during the 1980s and 1990s, driven by factors including mass incarceration, migration, popular media, and the movement of incarcerated gang members between correctional facilities. In Midwest, East Coast, and Southern correctional systems, incarcerated Crip sets encountered large, highly organized Chicago-based gang coalitions, most notably the Folk Nation and People Nation.

The Folk Nation is traditionally associated with the six-pointed star, while the People Nation is associated with the five-pointed star. Within certain correctional environments, Crip-affiliated street gangs developed alliances with members of the Folk Nation, which was heavily associated with the Gangster Disciples. These relationships are commonly described as the “8-Ball” alliance, a reference to the black eight-ball in pool and the perceived alliance between Crips and Folk-affiliated street gangs.

The six-pointed star consequently became an important symbol among many Crip sets outside California, particularly in parts of the Midwest, East Coast, and South. In these environments, the symbolism was incorporated into existing Crip identity and was sometimes interpreted through the six principles traditionally associated with the Gangster Disciples: Life, Love, Loyalty, Knowledge, Wisdom, and Understanding. Consequently, some Midwest and East Coast Crips use the “Six Points” or “Six” as a representation of purpose, loyalty, and affiliation.

It is important, however, to distinguish these regional adaptations from the historical culture of California Crips street gangs. Los Angeles and California Crips street gangs traditionally do not recognize the six-pointed star as a Crip symbol and do not consider themselves part of the Folk Nation. California Crips street gangs have historically operated according to localized neighborhood politics and affiliations, including distinctions between groups such as Rollin’ Neighborhood Crips and Gangster Crips.

As a result, a Crips street gang member from the Midwest or East Coast who enters Los Angeles while displaying symbols associated with the Folk Nation—such as pitchforks or the six-pointed star—may be viewed by local L.A. Crips street gang members as an outsider rather than as someone sharing the same regional gang identity. These symbols developed within a different historical and correctional environment and therefore do not carry the same meaning within traditional West Coast Crips street gang culture.

Detroit represents another example of how Crip identity has been adapted to a local environment. In Detroit, references to the “Six” or “6” can carry Crip-related meaning, while six-pointed-star symbolism may also overlap with iconography associated with Gangster Disciples. The meaning of these symbols is therefore highly dependent on regional context, local history, and the specific set using them rather than being universally interpreted the same way throughout the national Crips street gang network.

In Detroit, the Rollin’/Neighborhood Crip (“2X”) presence is one of the city’s most widespread Crip identities, consisting of loosely connected subsets operating across both the west and east sides. Each set generally functions independently, with its identity and relationships shaped heavily by block-level geography, local history, and localized alliances.

Numerically, the entire Gangster Crips alliance (3X / “Trays” / Movin Gang) in Detroit is (unofficially) estimated to include approximately 350 to 500 active members across the city. The total Crip population in Detroit—including factions such as the Rollin’ Neighborhood Crips, Gangster Crips, and independent localized blocks—is (unofficially) estimated at roughly 900 to 1,000 documented individuals spread across approximately 36 sets. The Gangster Crip (3X) umbrella therefore represents nearly 40% to 50% of Detroit’s overall Crip population.

The 5Point Nation alliance, along with its core ScoreGang arm, accounts for an estimated 150 to 200 members of that total. This would place the Five Points neighborhood at nearly 40% of Detroit’s entire Gangster Crip presence, making it the largest concentrated hub within the 3X network. The remaining estimated 200 to 300 Gangster Crips are distributed among smaller and more disconnected pockets throughout the Northwest (BGC, PBC, and SGC) and Westside (PBGC and SGC) with additional scattered blocks on the Eastside (SGC and PBGC).

Although other citywide Crip alliances—such as the “4s”—may constitute a larger generalized alliance system because they span a greater number of neighborhoods, the Gangster Crips (3X) remain a dense and significant traditional network in Detroit, with the Five Points territory functioning as its primary center of gravity.

The Rollin’ Neighborhood Crips (2X / Deuces / NHC) operate entirely outside the estimated 350-to-500-member Gangster Crip (3X) population. Under traditional Crip organizational terminology, the Deuces (2X) and Trays (3X) are historically rival factions, and are therefore treated as separate networks rather than being combined into a single membership count.

Within Detroit’s (unofficially) estimated 900 to 1,000 documented Crip members, the Rollin’ Neighborhood Crip alliance is estimated to account for approximately 200 to 250 active members citywide. The dominant force within Detroit’s 2X network is the Rollin 60s Neighborhood Crips (R60s). First established around 2006 near West 7 Mile and Tracey Street, the R60s are described in federal indictments and intelligence databases as having approximately 150 active members alone.

The remaining estimated 50 to 100 members are divided among smaller, localized Rollin chapters scattered throughout different parts of the city, including the Rollin 20s (3G Sosaworld), Rollin 30s (defunct), Rollin 40s (7-Tel RFC), and Rollin 100s (113 OBC). Outside their original West 7 Mile territory, the Rollin 60s network also includes the Jefferson Avenue Rollin 60s, known locally on the Eastside as the “BlueZone 60s,” as well as the Rich Rollin 60s, a younger clique operating in the Berg-Lahser area that reportedly rivals the ScoreGang/Frisbee Street Crips.

Because the Rollin 60s (2X) and Gangster Crips (3X) are traditionally opposed networks, Detroit has experienced significant internal Crip conflict. One of the most notable examples was the violent feud between the 7 Mile Rollin 60s (7M RSC) and the 7 Mile Playboy Gangster Crips (7M PBGC), a conflict that ultimately resulted in multiple high-profile federal RICO convictions.

Today, while active and comparatively large Crip organizations such as ScoreGang and 5Point Nation dominate the Gangster Crip (3X) landscape on Detroit’s Northwest side, the Rollin’ Neighborhood Crips (2X) reportedly maintain a concentrated and heavily policed rival presence only blocks away along the same West 7 Mile corridor. The resulting geography makes the 7 Mile corridor one of the clearest examples of the longstanding 2X-versus-3X divide within Detroit’s broader Crip landscape.

In April 2008, according to data from the National Drug Intelligence Center, the Detroit Police Department estimated that between 50 and 75 gangs were active in Detroit. That figure may have increased significantly over the years, particularly with the rise of social media and the proliferation of smaller neighborhood-based crews, cliques, and gang offshoots. According to present-day local accounts, more than 100 gangs are now reportedly operating across Detroit, with a significant portion described as Crip-affiliated groups or offshoots.

According to local estimates of Detroit’s Crip presence, which is approximately 900–1,000 active members across 36 distinct “sets,” Crip-affiliated groups and gangs account for a substantial share of the city’s gang population (~36%). Making the Crip-vs-Crip wars in Detroit a large portion of the violence, including their rivals of several other gangs such as the Bloods and Vice Lords, two major groups within the city.

For definitions of terminology related to activity, conduct, demographics, gang-related terms, identifiers, and classifications used on this page, refer to the site glossary.

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*In No Particular Order*

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Notes & Verification Status
Information is compiled from public records, community reports, and law enforcement sources.
Use of this page is for informational and historical purposes; it is not legal documentation.

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Sources:

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

• 1. DOJ Press Release 2018, Rollin’ 60 Crips Gang Leaders Sentenced for Racketeering Charges
• 2. DOJ Press Release 2019, 16 Members of a Violent Gang from Detroit’s Westside Have Been Convicted for Their Roles in a Racketeering Conspiracy
• 3. Click On Detroit Local 4 WDIV 2018, 2 leaders of Detroit’s Rollin 60s Crips street gang sentenced for racketeering
• 4. Fox 2 Detroit 2016, 12 gang members of the Rollin 60s Crips in Detroit arrested
• 5. Click On Detroit Local 4 WDIV 2019, Inside the takedown of the ‘Playboy Gangster Crips’
• 6. Click On Detroit Local 4 WDIV 2018, Feds bust ‘Playboy Gangster Crips” gang
• 7. Detroit News Article 2025, Purported Crip-Affiliated Gang Member Documents City’s ‘Tag Wars’
• 8. 2025 Detroit Crips Mini-documentary, Most Dangerous Crip Gangs in Detroit: The Real Story of Power, Bloodshed & Survival
• 9. 2025 Detroit Bloods Mini-documentary, Most Dangerous Blood Gangs in Detroit EXPOSED: 55 Seven Mile Bloods, 82 Headbanger Bloods & More!
• 10. Alamy Stock Photos 2015-2025, “Detroit Crips Graffiti,” 330+ photos with EXIF data and detailed titles/captions used for identification and location context
• 11. “Tag” definition, GangEnforcement.com
• 12. Gang Terminology, GangEnforcement.com
• 13. Street Gangs, GangEnforcement.com
• 14. U.S. Department of Justice, CRM 1-499; 105. Prosecuting Gang Activity
• 15. U.S. Department of Justice,National Drug Intelligence Center; Attorney General’s Report to Congress on the Growth of Violent Street Gangs in Suburban Areas April 2008; Appendix B. National-Level Street, Prison, and Outlaw Motorcycle Gang Profiles
• 16. U.S. Department of Justice (OJJDP), Graffiti Formats: Are They Gangs or Graffiti Crews? (Kenneth A. Davis, 2008)
• 17. U.S. Department of Justice (OJJDP), Taggers Beware: The Writing Is on the Wall (Douglas Page, 2005)
• 18. U.S. Department of Justice (OJJDP), Graffiti (Deborah L. Weisel, 2009)
• 19. U.S. Department of Justice (OJJDP), “Graffiti” library search
• 20. U.S. Department of Justice (OJJDP), Wipe Out Vandalism and Graffiti (1998)
• definition, Lemun Learning
• 21. U.S. Department of Justice (OJJDP), Hybrid and Other Modern Gangs
• 22. U.S. Department of Justice (OJJDP), The Youth Gangs, Drugs, and Violence Connection
• 23. U.S. Department of Justice, CRM 1-499; 105. Prosecuting Gang Activity
• 24. National Drug Center Intelligence (2009), Drugs and Gangs Facts
• 25. U.S. Department of Justice, CRM 1-499; 114. Criminal Street Gangs
• 26. U.S. Department of Justice (OJJDP), Hybrid and Other Modern Gangs
• 27. U.S. Department of Justice (OJJDP), CRIPS AND BLOODS STREET GANGS
• 28. 2016 America’s 1st Freedom Article, Proof That Nailing Violent Gang Members Is Key To Reducing Homicides
• 29. Justia 2020, United States v. Tisdale, No. 19-1901 (6th Cir. 2020)
• 30. DOJ Press Release 2026, Eighth Member of the Brooklyn-Based Hyena Crips Gang Pleads Guilty to Racketeering Crimes, Including Murder
• 31.DOJ Press Release 2019, 16 Members of a Violent Gang from Detroit’s Westside Have Been Convicted for Their Roles in a Racketeering Conspiracy
• 32. DOJ Press Release 2022, Eight Trey Gangster Crip Sentenced to 420 Months in Prison for Drug Trafficking and Money Laundering
• 34. Grokipedia 2026, Eight Tray Gangster Crips page
• 35. Internet Archive Upload, Brightmoor Gangster Crips (BGC) Graffiti Tags Captured On Google Street View Imagery (2013-2018)
• 36. DOJ Press Release 2019, Four Members and Associates of Staten Island “Paybacc Crips” Charged with Armed Kidnapping and Robbery
• 37. UnitedGangs.com (2026), Gardena Paybacc Crips page
• 38. DEA Press Release (2024), Members and Associates of Grape Street Crips Gang Admit Roles in Drug Trafficking Organization
• 39. DOJ Press Release (2019), Grape Street Crips Member Sentenced To Life In Prison For Murder Of Bystander And Related Drug-Trafficking Charges
• 40. UnitedGangs.com (2026), Grape Street Watts Crips page
• 41. DOJ Press Release 2022, Eight Trey Gangster Crip Sentenced to 420 Months in Prison for Drug Trafficking and Money Laundering
• 42. Shutterstock, Five Points Local portfolio
• 43. DOJ Press Release 2026, Eighth Member of the Brooklyn-Based Hyena Crips Gang Pleads Guilty to Racketeering Crimes, Including Murder
• 44.DOJ Press Release 2019, 16 Members of a Violent Gang from Detroit’s Westside Have Been Convicted for Their Roles in a Racketeering Conspiracy
• 45. Grokipedia 2026, 7 Mile Playboy Gangster Crips page
• 46. DOJ Press Release 2022, Eight Trey Gangster Crip Sentenced to 420 Months in Prison for Drug Trafficking and Money Laundering
• 47. Brooklyn’s DA Office 2023, Thirty-Two Alleged Members of Brooklyn-Based Gangs Variously Charged With 140 Counts, Including Conspiracy to Commit Murder
• 48. DOJ Press Release 2020, Two Members of the Brooklyn-Based “Insane Crip Gangsters” Charged with Sex Trafficking
• 49. DOJ Press Release 2015, Twenty Arrested As Federal And Local Authorities Dismantle Violent Set Of Crips Gang
• 50. DOJ Press Release 2018, Leader of Brooklyn Street Gang, Eight Trey Crips, Convicted of Murder In-Aid-Of Racketeering
• 51. DOJ Press Release 2019, Leaders and Members of Outlaw Gangsta Crips and Shoota Gang Sentenced to Up to 210 Months’ Imprisonment
  
• 52. DOJ Press Release 2019, Six Members and Associates of Brooklyn “Eight Trey Cowboys” and “Bloods” Street Gangs Arrested for Trafficking Narcotics and Firearms
• 53.  FBI Press Release 2015, Eight Trey Crips Gang Member Arrested for Murder of Brooklyn, New York Man
• 54. National Gang Center (NGC), Michigan Gang-Related Legislation By State
• 55. Fox 2 Detroit News Article 2017, ICE raid leads to 1,000 gang arrests, including 20 in Michigan
• 56. U.S. DOJ, National Drug Intelligence Center; Michigan High Intensity Drug Trafficking Area Drug Market Analysis (April 2008)
• 57. U.S. DOJ, About Violent Gangs
• 58. SafeState. (n.d.); Gang mentality and behavior; Tarrant Cares
• 59. PoliceMag.com, Decoding the Secret Messages on the Wall (April 1, 1996)
• 60. Buena Vista Neighborhood Association, Why Gang Graffiti Is Dangerous (March 6, 2018)
• 61. Wikipedia, Debate over the origins of the Crips gang
• 62. KevMacVideos, Craig Monson Finally Tells The Truth About The Crips
• 63. Versarien.com, Understanding Crips Gang Signs: History, Symbols, And Community Awareness