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"Slangin', Saggin' and Bangin'"

Do you know the meaning of the above terms?

Whether they are communicating orally, in writing, or spray painting words or symbols (graffiti) on a wall or building, gangs have created a unique language of their own. Some of the words and symbols have a universal gang use and meaning, while others have an ethnic, cultural, or regional meaning. In addition, a number of other terms and slogans have been given meanings other than the original meaning.

Sgt. Curtis Jackson, (retired) of the Los Angeles Sheriff's Department, very accurately describes how slang is used in his book, "A Line in the Turf.  The following excerpt from his book clearly points out how slang may have different meanings all over the country.

Their street slang may be different.  Yes, there will be some of the same terminology used by a lot of different gangs, but again each area will have it's own street slang.  Is a shotgun a "gauge", "break down", or "sprayer" or something else?  A revolver a "trey-eight" or "double deuce", a bicycle a "dime speed", a vehicle a "hoop" or "bomb".  When gang members say they left, did they "book" or "raise"?  Remember it's the job of the local law enforcement gang officer to figure out what is applicable for his/her own area."

The information below has been gathered from numerous sources. Although this list is believed to be the most extensive slang list on the Internet, It represents only a small sample of the many symbols, words and slogans used by "gang bangers." Also included are some "rap" terms as well as some of the more familiar street and prison gang names.

The importance of learning gang slang

It is becoming more and more essential for law enforcement and corrections personnel to learn terms used by gang members in order to effectively understand and communicate with them. It has been shown that the officers that can speak the lingo are more likely to gather more information about the person or about the gang activity in the area. The link below clearly shows how a knowledge of slang terms could lead to a better field or office interview.

Hip Hop Slang - a different language

Gangs OR Us gang slang pages

Are you finding letters or initials in graffiti, or elsewhere, and you don't know what they mean? The link below may help to identity the gang.

 

 

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  Robert Walker
Telephone - 803-345-2600

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