Man noticed he was featured in police ‘wanted’ post — his hilarious reply set off a back-and-forth no one expected

In contrast to most criminals, Anthony Akers, a 38-year-old Washington State man, has formed a lighthearted, bittersweet relationship with the Richland Police Department (RPD). Originally charged with possession of drugs, Akers has now landed in the internet hall of fame thanks to a humorous gesture he dared to show when interrogated by the police regarding a warrant. On November 29, 2018, the RPD posted a “Wanted Wednesday” ad on Facebook for Akers. Ideally, a criminal wanted by the police would prefer to lie low. But instead of going under the radar, Akers initiated a full-fledged communication in the Facebook comment section, leaving both the police and the viewers rolling with awe and laughter.

An unexpected comment

Crime prevention specialist Cerise Peck, who was the one communicating with him, shared with NBC News that a warrant was issued for his name because “he was not doing what he was court-ordered to do.” When the department posted his photo in the “Wanted Wednesday” ad, the comment section bubbled up with a comment from Akers himself. “Calm down, I’m going to turn myself in,” Akers assured them. Ever since his comment grabbed the social media spotlight, his name has been circulating like waves.

The police were stood up

Akers didn’t surrender to the police at the first announcement, though. A few days after their “Wanted Wednesday” post, the police wrote another post. “Hey Anthony! We haven't seen you yet. Our business hours are 8:00 am - 5:00 pm Monday through Friday. Of course if you need a ride you can call non-emergency (509-628-0333) and we will pick you up.” As hilarious as it could get, Akers responded again. “Tying up a couple loose ends since I will probably be in there for a month. Should be in there in the next 48 hours,” he replied.

Another desperate call

On December 4, the police posted again. “Morose Monday. Dear Anthony, is it us? Last Wednesday, we reached out to you as ‘wanted.’ You replied and even said you were going to turn yourself in. We waited, but you didn’t show.” In what sounded like a romantic batter, the police complained that the weekend came and went, and he didn’t show up. “We are beginning to think you are not coming.” Akers continued to tease. “Dear RPD, it's not you, it's me,” he wrote in a comment. He said the reason he didn’t show up is his “commitment issues.”

He apologized for keeping them waiting and promised to be there the following day, no later than lunchtime. He ended the taunting comment with the remark, “P.S. You're beautiful.” By next Wednesday, he was walking into the police station. After a long trail of taunting banter, he posted a selfie in the comments, writing, “Here for our date, sweetheart.” 

'Life shocks' can reverse behavior

A study published in Demography reported that "life shocks" like employment and marriage can reverse the criminal behavior of a person. In what researchers call the "turning point hypothesis," about 40 to 42% of the criminals arrested ended up transforming their lives with these life shocks. As for Akers, his very communication proved to be a game-changer. Plus, his current Facebook feed shows that he has a partner and a kid, which could have contributed to his transformation.

A wholesome end

Fast forward to May 26, 2021, his name appeared once again in RPD’s Facebook feed, this time not to state his past deeds, but to celebrate his bright future. “Today, Anthony Akers graduated from Benton County Veterans Therapeutic Court. We are honored that he allowed us to be a part of such an amazing accomplishment,” the department announced with pride. “As always, you know where to find us, should you need us,” they expressed to him.

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