Imagine waking up one morning, glancing at your phone, and seeing your face plastered all over social media. That’s the kind of Monday Mark Cropp had. This 19-year-old father from New Zealand didn’t just break the internet—he stomped all over it with his bold plea for a second chance at life, despite his criminal past and an even bolder face tattoo. The internet was quick to react, and boy, did it have a lot to say.
The Tattoo That Turned Heads
Meet Mark Cropp, a teenager who thought a face tattoo was a great idea—until it wasn’t. Known by the nickname DEVAST8, Mark’s tattoo journey began in the confines of prison. With nothing but a homemade tattoo gun, some burning plastic, toothpaste, and a sprinkle of creativity, Mark’s brother helped him ink a masterpiece that would make Picasso weep. What started as a small jawline design morphed into a cheek-to-chin spectacle, thanks to a bit too much prison-brewed apple booze. Talk about a DIY project gone wrong!
A Social Media Storm Brews
But wait, it gets weirder. Just as Mark was gearing up for life on the outside, he sent a picture to his partner, Taneia Ruki, to prepare her for the shock. Her reaction? Let’s just say ‘devastated’ is an understatement. Despite the initial horror, love prevailed, and Taneia now claims she can’t picture Mark without his infamous face art.
Job Hunting with a Twist
Once a free man, Mark quickly realized that potential employers weren’t exactly thrilled about hiring someone with a tattoo that could cause traffic accidents. He took to social media, pleading for a break. And boy, did the internet deliver! Offers came pouring in—so many that Mark stopped counting at 45. His inbox became busier than a Black Friday sale.
Public Reaction: Memes and More
The internet, as expected, was ablaze. Memes sprouted like weeds after rain, with captions ranging from “When you want a job but your face screams ‘I’m on a wanted poster’” to “When your tattoo is more famous than you are.” But amidst the jokes, a wave of support rushed in, showing the softer side of social media. People began discussing the importance of second chances and redemption, turning Mark’s plea into a global conversation.
But Wait, There’s More!
Despite the job offers, Mark hesitated. Many roles required a car, something he didn’t have. But thanks to Taneia’s encouragement, he eventually snagged a full-time scaffolding gig, marking the dawn of a new era. And if you thought that was the end, think again.
Farewell to DEVAST8
Realizing that his future might be brighter without the tattoo, Mark made the brave decision to have it removed. Though it held sentimental value, symbolizing a brotherly bond, Mark knew it was time to say goodbye. With a generous offer for laser removal, he’s scheduled to undergo the first session soon. The process will be painful, but Mark’s no stranger to a bit of discomfort.
Turning Over a New Leaf
Having only been out of jail for a fortnight, Mark is already a changed man. He’s determined not to let his past—or his tattoo—define him. As a young father, his focus is now on becoming a dependable figure for his family. His story is a powerful reminder that while we can’t erase our past, we can certainly rewrite our future.
A Message That Resonates
Mark’s viral saga did more than just amuse us; it opened up a dialogue about forgiveness and the power of change. It’s a story of hope, resilience, and the human capacity for growth. As Mark puts it, “I just want to move forward. I’ve made my mistakes, but I’m ready to turn things around.”
So the next time you think about getting a tattoo, maybe consider starting with something a little less permanent than a face full of ink. Or at least don’t do it after a few rounds of apple moonshine.