Man with DEVAST8 face tattoo struggling to get a job

Mark Cropp says his DEVAST8 facial tattoo has stopped him from getting a job  - Caters News Agency
Mark Cropp says his DEVAST8 facial tattoo has stopped him from getting a job - Caters News Agency

A New Zealand man with a large DEVAST8 face tattoo says it is preventing him from finding a job.

Mark Cropp got the tattoo - done by his brother - a few months ago when he was drunk on contraband homebrew in prison, but admits he now regrets the decision.

MARK CROPP - Credit: Caters 
The amateur inking covers his cheeks, mouth and chin Credit: Caters

The 19-year-old told the New Zealand Herald that he has struggled to find work since his release from prison after contacting several recruitment agencies.

In a desperate attempt to find work, he posted a selfie on the Auckland Jobs Facebook group appealing for someone to give him a job.

Mark Cropp with his girlfriend Taneia Ruki - Credit: Caters 
Mark Cropp with his girlfriend Taneia Ruki Credit: Caters

“I’m keen as to work but have one thing that is stopping me and that’s my tattoo on my face,” he wrote.

“I don’t have a CV as of yet but have worked at NZ brick distributors before, also a scrap metal yard … Keen as on job or work place that will take me on.”

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He told the New Zealand Herald: “One employment place said to me ‘I wouldn't employ you with that on your face, I wouldn’t even take a second look at you.’ I’ve had other people that just shrugged and laughed at me.

“I just want any job at the end of the day … I’m sick of being on the dole.”

Cropp pleaded guilty to aggravated robbery after pulling a knife on a tourist in 2015 and was given a two-year sentence.

The teen’s determination to find work has paid off and he has received job offers in scaffolding and construction since posting on Facebook.  

A tattoo laser removal company has also offered to remove the DEVAST8 from his face for free.

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