validation

A term thrown around with no explanation in Shot Caller. The word used when a person has been confirmed as being involved in a gang, prison or otherwise. Could lead to more restricted priveleges in the hole, segregation from general pop, and possible time in the SHU. Once you have been validated and are out of prison, you get a "special condition" of your parole, and that means that you cannot associate with anyone who is a gang member, former gang member, affiliate, associate whether you knew it or not. If you are caught doing so, you get more time.