admin
The Criminal Who Went Viral for a Black Eyeball Tattoo: The Shocking Story of Jason Barnum
The internet has seen countless viral faces—but few as unsettling as Jason Barnum, the man who became infamous not just for his crimes, but for a jet-black eyeball tattoo that instantly stopped people scrolling.
Nicknamed “Eyeball,” Barnum’s appearance alone was enough to spark global curiosity. His right eye was completely blacked out with tattoo ink, a rare and dangerous procedure that many experts warn can cause permanent damage—or even blindness. But behind the shocking look was a far darker story.
A Crime That Changed Everything
In 2012, Barnum was staying at a hotel in Anchorage, Alaska, when police arrived to question him in connection with a string of burglaries and stolen vehicles. What happened next escalated fast.
During the confrontation, Barnum shot a police officer, seriously injuring him. Officers returned fire, wounding Barnum and ending the standoff. Inside his possession, authorities discovered stolen jewelry and valuables, revealing an ongoing crime spree reportedly driven by drug addiction.
A Long Criminal History
This was not Barnum’s first encounter with the law. By the time of his arrest, he already had 14 prior convictions, ranging from theft to resisting arrest. Prosecutors described him as a repeat offender with a pattern of escalating violence.
He was charged with attempted murder, assault, and weapons offenses, and eventually sentenced to over 20 years in prison.
Why the Internet Couldn’t Look Away
Despite the severity of his crimes, it was Barnum’s appearance that made him go viral. Photos of his blackened eye spread rapidly across social media, sparking debates about extreme body modification and its consequences.
Eye tattooing is considered extremely risky, with potential complications including infections, vision loss, and permanent eye damage. Many questioned how such a procedure was even possible—and why someone would choose it.
“I Couldn’t Get a Job”
During court proceedings, Barnum claimed his facial and eye tattoos made it nearly impossible to find work, pushing him further toward homelessness and crime. He also criticized the lack of support systems for former inmates trying to reintegrate into society after prison.
While some viewed this as an explanation, others saw it as an excuse.
Rumors, Myths, and the Truth
As his image spread online, a bizarre rumor emerged claiming Barnum was the son of actor Harrison Ford. The claim went viral—but was quickly proven false.
In the end, the truth was far less glamorous and far more tragic.
A Viral Face with a Dark Reality
Jason Barnum’s story is a chilling reminder that viral fame doesn’t equal admiration. Behind the shocking visuals lies a narrative of addiction, poor choices, and irreversible consequences.
His black eyeball tattoo may have made him unforgettable—but it’s his actions that sealed his fate.
