Unemployed dad with disturbing face tattoo begs for job on Facebook after searching for months

In an incredible story showcasing the influence of social media, Mark Cropp, a young man from New Zealand, faced a pivotal moment following a two-year, three-month stint in prison for a failed drug transaction.

While incarcerated, Mark, eager for a new beginning upon his release, reached a momentous decision that would reshape his future.

One evening, in his prison cell, under the influence of a potent brew concocted from fermented apples, bread, and sugar, Mark and his brother made a decision that would change their lives dramatically…

The face tattoo

In a haze, they decided to tattoo Mark’s face with his nickname using a makeshift ink that was made from toothpaste and melted plastic knives and forks. The resulting giant black tattoo, boldly spelling “Devast8” across his jaw and lower face, would eventually become a symbol of regret.

Following his release from prison, Mark encountered the brutal truth of being unable to find employment. Despite his strong desire to reintegrate into society and support his partner and young daughter, he quickly realized that his prominent facial tattoo was a significant barrier. Despite his qualifications and past employment history, prospective employers were immediately deterred by the visible ink, leaving Mark unable to secure a job.

Speaking to the Daily Mail Australia, Mark shared the significance of his tattoo, stating: “For a long time, I seemed to bring destruction to everything I was involved in. I ended up hurting everyone I encountered or grew close to.”

He continued, expressing his regret: “People would express disappointment over my actions or words – I kept hearing ‘that’s devastating.’ Once it began, I felt like I couldn’t turn back. Honestly, I wish I had stopped when only the outline was there.”

“Before I knew it, I had this inked on my face… It swelled up like a bloody pumpkin,” he recounted.

In a desperate quest for a solution, Mark explored options for tattoo removal, but faced financial constraints and a lack of willing professionals. Laser removal, while the most feasible choice, necessitated numerous sessions and came with a hefty price tag. So, Mark turned to social media for assistance.

Taking to Facebook, Mark posted a selfie displaying his distinctive tattoo, appealing for a job and a chance to start anew. His heartfelt plea swiftly gained traction on the platform, capturing the attention of the team at Sacred Tattoo, a tattoo studio based in Auckland.

Fresh starts Moved by Mark’s narrative and identifying a chance to create a beneficial change, Sacred Tattoo made a remarkable gesture of goodwill. Renowned for their dedication to the community, the tattoo studio volunteered to assist Mark by offering complimentary laser removal sessions to eliminate the “Devast8” tattoo from his face.

This altruistic act from Sacred Tattoo not only highlighted the profound influence of social media but also underscored the significance of compassion.

Additionally, Mark secured a job at PR Contracting, a scaffolding company, earning $22 per hour.