46th Street Gang
Also known as: 46th Street Tokers
Founded: Unknown (active by at least the 1980s;
court-documented by the mid-2000s)
Origin: South Central Los Angeles, California,
United States
Named after: 46th Street
Ethnicity: Predominantly Mexican-American
Known cliques: Tokers (primary), Locos
Years active: 1980s–present (reported)
Rivals: 18th Street; Primera Flats;
Alley Tiny Criminals (ATC)
The 46th Street Gang, also known as the 46th Street Tokers, is a small, predominantly Mexican-American street gang based in South Central Los Angeles, California. The gang takes its name from 46th Street, with activity historically associated with the area between Western Avenue and Vermont Avenue. Despite having other cliques, such as the Locos, their most prominent clique is the Tokers.
Historical Context
During the 1980s, 46th Street sat at the heart of South-Central Los Angeles’ urban war zone, with the 46th Street Gang caught in the crossfire of already warring neighborhood gangs. Operating in an area marked by constant territorial conflict, their presence further disrupted the fragile balance of power among surrounding gangs.46th Street sat at the heart of South-Central Los Angeles’ urban war zone, with the 46th Street Gang caught in the crossfire.
Gang Culture and Loyalty
Like many street gangs, the 46th Street Tokers are often associated with the phrase “blood in, blood out,” a belief suggesting that leaving the gang is extremely dangerous. This mindset reflects the emphasis placed on loyalty, reputation, and consequences for perceived betrayal. For example, on May 8, 2008, a member was reportedly killed after attempting to affiliate with a rival gang, the Primera Flats.
Allies And Rivalries
The enemies of the 46th Street Tokers included several larger and more established gangs operating in and around South Los Angeles. Among their primary rivals were the 46th Street Tokers, including several larger and more established gangs such as 18th Street, Primera Flats, and the Alley Tiny Criminals (ATC). These rivalries were shaped largely by territorial proximity, long-standing neighborhood tensions, and competition for influence within overlapping areas.