A 19-year-old father from New Zealand became a viral sensation after publicly pleading for someone to look past his criminal history and the bold face tattoo that’s been holding him back.

Mark Cropp, a teenager recently released from prison, made headlines after sharing a heartfelt post on social media, asking for a second chance at life—and a job. His story quickly gained traction online, and in just a few hours, Mark was overwhelmed with support, receiving more than 45 job offers.

“I stopped counting when I reached 45,” he told Daily Mail Australia.

The Tattoo That Changed Everything

Mark earned the nickname “DEVAST8” due to the emotional damage he says he caused to those around him. In prison, he and his brother decided to immortalize that nickname across his face using a homemade tattoo gun crafted from a cassette player and a pen spring. The ink was made by burning plastic utensils and mixing the soot with toothpaste and water.

What was supposed to be a small piece along the jawline turned into a massive tattoo stretching across his cheeks and chin—done while drinking homebrewed alcohol made from apples, sugar, and bread.

Family Shock and Personal Regret

Just a week before his release, Mark sent a photo of his face to his partner, Taneia Ruki, to prepare her for the shock.

“She was devastated,” Mark admitted. “But now she’s gotten used to it and says she can’t see me without it.”
Despite that, Mark acknowledges the tattoo has become a major obstacle in his life.