Unscarred: Texas Minister Removes Ex-Con’s Tattoos

A Texas minister working with the Harris County Sherriff’s Department in Houston is helping ex-cons get a new lease on life before being released into society -- by removing their tattoos.

Wayne Heintze says he got the idea of getting into tattoo removal after meeting a former gang member who was concerned about never being employable because of his many tattoos.

So, in an attempt to help convicts get a better second chance, Heintze took it upon himself to learn how to properly remove the ink from under the skin. A year later, he and his wife were able to purchase the necessary laser equipment and open a modest clinic.

The couple’s tattoo removal business offers substantial discounts to gang members, prostitutes and other convicted criminals, as long as they are willing to participate in community service.

Tattoo removal is an extension of a prison program that provides offenders with drug and job counseling.