Barrio Azteca Prison Gang

Originating in the Texas Department of Criminal Justice (Department of Corrections) activities of the Barrio Azteca prison gang were first tracked within in the system about 1990. The Barrio Azteca has become one of the most violent prison gangs in Texas and has now spread its tentacles to the streets on both sides of the U.S./Mexican border in southwest Texas and southeast New Mexico. Many of the original inmate members were from the West Texas area of El Paso but since organizing, they have permitted some inmates from other parts of the State of Texas to join their ranks.

Like other prison gangs they attempt to control the prison system, and the inmates within the system, through illegal activity. Reported criminal activities have included heavy involvement with drug trafficking organizations (cartels). The gang’s main source of income is derived from smuggling heroin, powdered cocaine, and marijuana from Mexico into the United States for distribution both inside and outside prisons. Other criminal activities include prostitution, kidnapping, arson, auto theft, extortion, intimidation of staff, assaults, and murder.

The organizational structure of the Barrio Azteca is as follows: President, Vice-President, Captain, Lieutenant, Sergeant and Warrior.

They do not have a specific tattoo but have been known to use an Aztec Indian head. A tattoo with one feather signifies the rank of lieutenant and two feathers, the rank of captain.

Barrio Azteca members are known for their propensity for violence and membership is for life. Serious association with members of other prison gangs such as the Texas Syndicate, La Raza Unida, Aryan Brotherhood of Texas and the Mexican Mafia is not tolerated.

source: gangsorus.com