Which prison area is associated with the Mexican Mafia gang?

Pelican Bay State Prison in California is particularly known for its association with the Mexican Mafia gang. The Mexican Mafia is a highly organized criminal group that is primarily composed of Latino members, and Pelican Bay has been a significant location for the gang due to its high-security level and the presence of many gang members. The prison's Security Housing Unit (SHU) has housed numerous members and affiliates of the Mexican Mafia, making it a critical area for the gang's operations and influence within the penal system.

The other prisons listed have their own histories and associations with various gangs but are not primarily linked to the Mexican Mafia. Alcatraz, once a famous federal prison, closed in 1963 and is no longer relevant in the current context. San Quentin has a diverse population of inmates, including members of various gangs, but it is not as specifically identified with the Mexican Mafia as Pelican Bay. Leavenworth is known for its long history and has housed a variety of inmates but does not have a prominent connection to the Mexican Mafia. This context helps clarify why Pelican Bay is the correct answer in relation to the Mexican Mafia.