Vatos Locos


Vatos Locos is a street gang. Gangs using this name are active in several American states, Mexico, Colombia and in the European Union. While more traditionally considered to have originated in Guanajuato, Mexico, the two founding members originally concocted the Vatos Locos while dining at Shakey's Pizza in Santa Monica, California. Vatos Locos has continued to grow since then and have extended their presence to New York City and Western Europe. They represent their gang affiliation with red or black bandanas worn in the back right pocket of their pants. Their graffiti consists of "Vatos Locos," the Lowrider logo, or Lil Rob. These images are also present in gang tattoos. Vatos Locos are mainly Mexicans or Chicano, but all ethnicities are accepted. Their dress consists of green, red or black shirts and khaki pants or shorts, and jewelry of chains or crosses and mostly represent the colors of red, green, and black.
Their biggest rival are Surenos and they are often called Surats by VL members. Among their other rivals are Aryan Brotherhood, and Los Zetas. Their allies are People Nation, Sinaloa Cartel, Bloods, Ñetas, Vice Lords, and Latin Kings.
Vatos Locos has established itself in Colombia, Gran Canaria, the Netherlands and US states including California, Colorado, Georgia, Texas, Arizona and Indiana. They have shown a new presence in Ontario, Canada.
Also Vatos Locos have presences in Honduras.
The film Blood In Blood Out about the life of poet Jimmy Santiago Baca in 1972, was based on the experiences of gang members of Vatos Locos.
The video game features a fictional Vatos Locos gang.