SHERWOOD, Ore. – A recent Facebook post from the Sherwood Police Department is drawing widespread attention for its unusual approach to a shoplifting investigation. Written in the style of a “missed connections” ad, the post mixes humor with law enforcement messaging—and the internet has taken notice.
A Playful Twist on a Serious Case
The post, which went live Wednesday night, has already generated more than 11,000 likes and 2,000 comments.
“MISSED CONNECTIONS: Our paths crossed last night and you didn’t give me the chance to introduce myself. It makes me sad because our connection was meant to be,” the post begins.
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The department then paints a vivid description of the suspected shoplifter:
“You were leaving Walmart wearing a Nike jacket screaming ‘Just Took It’ vibes, rocking a bun that looks like it just lost a fight with a weed whacker, and having eyebrows that are the victim of assault & battery #CriminallyThin #JustDrewIt.”
The tongue-in-cheek message goes on to describe the alleged theft and the officer’s failed attempt to apprehend the suspect after a chase through a construction zone.
Residents with tips are encouraged to contact the department’s public information office and reference the case number.
A History of Offbeat Posts
This isn’t the first time the Sherwood Police Department has leaned into humor on its social media page. Past posts have included quips like:
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“Before you decide to be crimey this week, stop and get yourself a cold glass of choccy milk and a sweet treat.”
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“Your ‘bangs emergency’ doesn’t mean you can speed 51 mph in a 25 mph zone because you’re running late to your hair appointment.”
But not all stunts have been received positively. In October 2024, the department promoted a Halloween event called “hide and seek with a cop,” where armed officers would chase participants through a wooded park. Critics quickly called the idea “life-endangering.”
“I call it hide and seek, they call it resisting arrest,” one commenter wrote at the time.
The backlash led the department to cancel the event.
Divided Reactions
The latest post has stirred mixed feelings in the community and beyond. Many applauded the creativity.
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“Comedy GOLD,” one commenter wrote.
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“Love this approach,” added another.
Others, however, questioned whether mocking a suspect’s appearance was appropriate.
“It’s so bizarre to me that internet trolling has become such a norm that city officials are making fun of real people, with real problems,” one user posted. “This is so embarrassing for our community.”
Another commenter noted:
“This post might be funny, but does it really meet your standards of service, respect, and duty that you hold your officers to on a daily basis?”
The Bigger Question
While the post generated buzz, it remains unclear whether the humor-laced appeal will actually help identify the alleged shoplifter. Law enforcement agencies across the country have increasingly used social media for community engagement, but Sherwood’s latest experiment highlights the fine line between entertainment and professionalism.
For now, the Sherwood Police Department has given no indication that it plans to abandon its unconventional style.
What Comes Next
As the investigation into the Walmart shoplifting case continues, the department’s playful approach may keep residents talking—if not necessarily producing leads.
Whether the viral attention results in an arrest or just a laugh, the post reflects a broader debate about how far police can or should go in blending humor with duty.
For some, it’s effective community outreach. For others, it’s a step too far.
