Two young police student recruits faced cruel comments from internet trolls claiming they look “12”, forcing a senior police officer to step forward to defend the pair.
Superintendent Helen Brear from West Yorkshire Police proudly shared an image on social media welcoming new student officers to Kirklees District as a part of a recent uplift programme.
She said: “Welcome Alfie and Noah to Kirklees District. New student officers as part of our Police Uplift programme, #Policing family.”
However, the post sparked a wave of cruel jokes about Alfie and Noah’s youthful appearance.
While all student officers must be over 18 to apply, the keyboard bullies wasted no time in launching a barrage of hurtful remarks upon seeing the baby-faced aspiring policemen standing alongside Supt Brear and another female officer.
One insensitive social media user went as far as commenting: “1,000 percent bullied at school.”
Meanwhile another tactlessly questioned: “Has the pension got so bad that they have to start at 12?”
The teasing and mocking comments continued, with one social media user questioning: “Has puberty struck yet?”
Another wrote: “What happens when the six-week school holidays are over?”
Someone else added: “Should I be letting the NSPCC know about this?”
Despite the unnecessary negativity, Supt Brear took a stand against the cyberbullying and defended the two student officers.
She said: “I have been incredibly disappointed by some of the responses. Both of my colleagues passed the recruitment process and displayed they had the skills/abilities.
“Both will make great cops and I as their leader will ensure they reach their potential.”
Other police officers currently serving also offered their support to the duo.
Caroline Goode wrote: “They will get plenty of stick on the streets for looking young, much as I did.
“Some people may feel they can take liberties and quickly find out they were mistaken. They will do just fine. Wish them luck from an oldie, tell them enjoy their youthful looks while they can.”
Ch Supt Chris Casey, of the British Transport Police, added to the support, writing: “I recall starting as a very you[ng] looking 18-year-old special @AstonWMP – a steep learning curve, but looking young didn’t hold me back.”