Valentine's Day usually brings to mind bouquets of red roses, boxes of chocolates, and candlelit dinners. But for police departments across the United States, February 14th has become the perfect occasion for a different kind of courtship: courting criminals with outstanding warrants. In a trend that has swept social media this week, local law enforcement agencies are offering jilted lovers the ultimate revenge—a "Valentine's Day Special" that includes a chauffeured ride in a patrol car, custom silver jewelry (handcuffs), and an all-inclusive stay at the local county jail.
The 'All-Inclusive' Valentine's Package
Forget the Ritz-Carlton; this year's hottest destination is the "Orange Jumpsuit District Inn & Suites." Police departments have unleashed their creativity on Facebook and X (formerly Twitter), marketing their arrest warrants as luxury vacation packages. The offers are dripping with satire, designed to go viral while serving a serious purpose: clearing active warrants.
The Rochester Police Department in Massachusetts took the internet by storm with their "Valentine's Day Special." Their viral post promised a suite of amenities for that special ex-someone who might be "riding dirty." The package includes a free ride in a "Bluber" (the department's witty take on Uber using a police cruiser), complimentary "silver jewelry" that is one-size-fits-all, and a professional photo shoot from multiple angles—better known to the rest of us as a mugshot.
Coast-to-Coast 'Heartbreak Hotel' Deals
The trend isn't isolated to one region; it has gone national for 2026, with agencies from Rhode Island to Montana joining the fun. In Rhode Island, the Warwick Police Department pitched their services with the tagline, "Nothing says 'closure' like a drama-free weekend." Their offer included a complimentary weekend stay in their holding facility and a free booking photo to share with friends and family.
Southern Hospitality with a Twist
Down south, the Kaplan Police Department in Louisiana embraced the poetic spirit of the holiday. Their campaign featured the catchy poem: "Roses are red, violets are blue, if you have a felony warrant, police are looking for you." They offered to send an officer to an ex's location to wish them a Happy Valentine's Day, immediately followed by a one-way trip to the city jail. Similarly, the Lavonia Police Department in Georgia kept it simple and direct with their viral slogan: "If you're wanted, we want you."
Midwest and Mountain State Specials
In Iowa, the Manchester Police Department advertised a "luxurious one-night getaway" complete with a personal chauffeur. They jokingly asked residents if their exes had been "stalking the MPD Facebook Page anxiously awaiting an opportunity" for such a deal. Meanwhile, in Montana, the Darby Marshal's Office offered a "Dinner and a Room" package. While the "dinner" might just be a standard jail meal, the department guaranteed the room comes with "secure accommodations" and very attentive staff.
Viral Humor with Real Results
While the posts are undeniably funny, receiving thousands of shares and laugh reactions, the intent behind them is serious. Law enforcement agencies use these viral police social media campaigns to engage the community and gather legitimate tips on the whereabouts of individuals with active warrants.
The Clayton County Sheriff's Office in Iowa noted that while their "Arrest Your Ex" post was tongue-in-cheek, the public safety element remains paramount. "Active warrants are important, and helping locate wanted individuals plays a role in keeping our community safe," the department stated. By wrapping the request in humor, police lower the barrier for community cooperation, turning snitching into a form of holiday justice.
Why It Works: The Sweet Taste of Petty Revenge
Why do these posts go so viral every year? They tap into a universal feeling: the desire for closure—and perhaps a little petty revenge—against a toxic ex-partner. The Australian Federal Police even joined in internationally, asking citizens, "Got an ex who's up to some criminal activity and don't want them to be alone tomorrow? We'd love to be their date!"
The engagement numbers speak for themselves. Comments sections are often filled with residents tagging friends and joking about turning in their own "mistakes" of the past. It humanizes the police force, transforming them from faceless enforcers into witty community participants who understand the struggles of modern dating.
A Warning for the 'Wanted' Romeos
For those currently evading the law, this weekend might be the time to lay low or, better yet, turn yourself in before your ex does it for you. As the Washington Township Police in New Jersey reminded everyone, they are "open 24/7" for those whose significant others might have been forgotten or cheated on. So, if you have outstanding warrants this Valentine's Day, beware: that knock on the door might not be a flower delivery—it might just be your chauffer arriving for your all-inclusive stay at the county jail.
