Viral Valentine: Brandon police get clicks with video plea to turn in criminal exes

A Light-Hearted Police Initiative for Valentine’s Day

In a creative and humorous twist, the Brandon Police Service in Manitoba, Canada, released a video ahead of Valentine’s Day, urging jilted lovers to report their ex-partners who might be engaging in illegal activities or evading the law. The video, which quickly went viral, was viewed over half a million times by midday on Thursday, showcasing the police department’s effort to engage with the public in a fun and relatable way.

The video begins in a mock holding cell area, where an officer humorously addresses the public. “Hey Brandon! Do you have an ex-romantic partner that constantly brags about getting away with crimes, maybe misses court, has a warrant or two? You want to do something special for them for Valentine’s Day? If so, give us a call,” the officer says. The video then cuts to a 911 dispatch room, where another officer jokes that “operators are standing by” to take tips. Those reported will be treated to “luxury transportation” to their very own “private suite” at the Crowbar Hotel—a playful nickname for the local jail, decked out with red and pink hearts for the occasion.

A Creative Approach to Public Engagement

Sgt. Dana McCallum of the Brandon Police explained that the idea for the video was inspired by similar social media campaigns created by other police services. The goal, McCallum said, was not just to encourage the public to report criminal activity—a responsibility the police hope people take seriously every day—but to humanize their officers through lighthearted humor. “The post wasn’t to encourage people to call in tips… but rather to engage the public in a relatable and entertaining way,” McCallum explained.

This creative approach reflects a growing trend among law enforcement agencies to connect with their communities through social media. By using humor and pop culture references—like the jail’s nickname, the Crowbar Hotel—the Brandon Police aimed to break down barriers and show that even in serious professions, there’s room for a little fun. The video’s playful tone and Valentine’s Day theme made it a hit on social platforms, resonating with people looking for a laugh during the season of love.

A Viral Hit with a Hidden Message

While the video’s primary focus was entertainment, it also carried an underlying message about reporting criminal activity. By framing it as a humorous way to “celebrate” ex-partners who might be breaking the law, the police cleverly encouraged the public to take action without sounding authoritative or preachy. This subtle blend of humor and civic responsibility struck a chord with viewers, who appreciated the light-hearted reminder of the importance of community involvement in keeping their city safe.

The video’s success was evident in its rapid spread across social media, with many viewers sharing it not just because it was funny but also because it stood out from the usual police messaging. For law enforcement, this kind of engagement is invaluable, as it helps build trust and foster a sense of collaboration between the police and the public they serve.

A Glimpse into Modern Policing Strategies

The Brandon Police’s Valentine’s Day campaign offers a glimpse into how modern policing is evolving in the digital age. Gone are the days of stiff, formal announcements; today, law enforcement agencies are embracing social media as a tool to connect with the public and share their personalities. By sharing lighthearted content, officers can humanize themselves and show that they, too, are members of the community they protect.

This approach is particularly effective in reaching younger audiences who are more likely to engage with content that is relatable and entertaining. While the Brandon Police’s video was playful, it also served as a reminder of the important role the public plays in helping law enforcement do their job effectively. Whether it’s reporting a crime or spreading awareness, community involvement is key, and creative campaigns like this one are making that message heard in a way that’s both fun and memorable.

A Lesson in the Power of Humor and Creativity

The Brandon Police’s Crowbar Hotel video is more than just a funny Valentine’s Day prank; it’s a testament to the power of humor and creativity in breaking down barriers and fostering community connections. By embracing a lighthearted approach, the police not only entertained half a million viewers but also reinforced the importance of public participation in maintaining safety and order. As police departments continue to navigate the challenges of modern law enforcement, campaigns like this one remind us that even in serious work, a little humor can go a long way.

While the video won’t solve all crimes or magically fix relationships, it achieves something equally valuable—building rapport with the public and showing that officers are real people with a sense of humor. And who knows? Maybe a few ex-partners will think twice before bragging about their antics, knowing that their former loves might just send them a special Valentine’s Day gift—a free ride to the Crowbar Hotel.