The New Zealand Police have recently been running an recruiting campaign: better work stories. I think it’s quite interesting and a great way to market the police as a career opportunity. However, in the wake of a recent police rape-trial, parody posters were released, angering the police force because it tarnishes the image of the majority of the officers currently on the force.

While I think the police have a valid point, I also think it is important for the population to be able to show that they believe the behaviour that caused the allegations, criminal or otherwise, to be unacceptable for members of the police force. Anonymous comment is an important part of free society; postering is a valid form of public commentary. In response, the police should be willing to show the public that the message has been received.

For the record, the parody is only effective because the original marketing strategy was effective.