Mark Cropp, a young man from New Zealand, faced a tough reality after serving two years and three months in prison

for a failed drug deal. While behind bars, he made a mistake that would haunt him. One night, drunk on homemade alcohol,

he and his brother tattooed his face with his nickname using ink made from toothpaste and melted plastic.

The bold word “Devast8” stretched across his jaw, a lasting mark of regret.

When released, Mark wanted a fresh start but couldn’t find work. Employers dismissed him despite his skills,

unwilling to overlook the tattoo. “There was a long time I would devastate everything I touched,”

he admitted. “Once it was started, I thought, I can’t go back now. I wish I had stopped.”

Unable to afford removal, Mark posted a selfie online asking for help. His story quickly spread, catching the attention of Sacred Tattoo in Auckland,

which offered free laser treatments. Soon after, he also secured steady work with PR Contracting, earning $22 an hour.

Mark’s journey shows the importance of compassion, second chances, and how social media

can transform lives, turning one man’s regret into a path toward redemption and hope.