An LA County Sheriff’s deputy walked into a Starbucks in Norwalk after a 16-hour shift and left with more than coffee-his cup bore a hand-drawn pig that the company now says was meant to echo the viral “John Pork” meme.
At a Glance
- Deputy received coffee with pig doodle on January 9 during overnight shift
- Image resembled “John Pork” TikTok meme, not a deliberate insult, Starbucks says
- Department calls incident “deeply concerning”; store has apologized
- Why it matters: Test of how corporate chains handle tension with law enforcement in era of viral pranks
The deputy, identified on Instagram as B. Longoria, posted that he felt “discouraged and disrespectful” after spotting the drawing. “All I wanted was caffeine, but instead I left feeling uneasy,” he wrote.
The Incident
Longoria reported the cup to the store manager, who promised to investigate, according to the Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department. The agency said it was “deeply concerned” by the episode.
Starbucks responded within hours:
- Opened an internal investigation
- Apologized to the deputy and the department
- Stated the doodle was “never intended to be given to any customer”
“We have a deep appreciation and respect for law enforcement, who are dedicated to keeping our communities safe,” a spokesperson said.
The Meme Behind the Pig
The sketch appears to mirror “John Pork,” a TikTok trend where users fake incoming video calls from a cartoon pig in a suit. The meme’s absurdity landed it on Jeopardy last month, leaving host Ken Jennings visibly puzzled.
Starbucks insists the barista was referencing the joke, not targeting the deputy. Still, the department has not indicated whether it considers the explanation sufficient.
Reactions
- Sheriff’s Department: Wants accountability and assurance it won’t recur
- Starbucks: Reiterates “zero tolerance for any form of disrespect”
- Online supporters: Flood deputy’s Instagram with messages of backing
No disciplinary action has been confirmed so far.
Key Takeaways
- A seconds-long doodle can ignite department-wide tension
- Viral memes complicate intent versus perception
- Quick corporate apologies may not satisfy offended parties
- Social media gives officers a direct line to public sympathy
The episode underscores how a simple cup of coffee can become the latest flashpoint in the fragile relationship between corporate chains and the police who patrol their neighborhoods.
