Kentucky State Police receives backlash, offers apology for tweeting prison rape 'joke

The Kentucky State Police has apologized after receiving backlash for tweeting about prison rape as a way to discourage drunken driving after Sunday's Super Bowl game Sunday.

What did the tweet say?

The social media post suggested that you may end up prison for drinking and driving.

But the backlash came from the slow-motion GIF attached to it that showed a bar of soap hitting the ground, presumably a reference to a jail rape joke.

"Enjoy watching Rob Gronkowski (TE) play but if you drink & drive ... your tight end may end up in jail!" the tweet said.

What was the reaction?

Kentucky Secretary of State Alison Lundergan Grimes  reacted to the tweet and called on the department to issue an apology.

"Rape & sexual assault are not joking matters. Citizens expect & deserve better of law enforcement. An apology to victims everywhere from @kystatepolice is needed."

Officials deleted the original tweet after the Kentucky Journal-Courier reached out for comment.

Did the Kentucky State Police apologize?

At 10:22 p.m.. the department offered a public apology on Twitter but placed blame for the vulgar post on an "individual employee."

"The Kentucky State Police apologizes for the inappropriate tweet that appeared on our Twitter feed earlier tonight. Making light of sexual assault in never acceptable, and we apologize for the distress this tweet caused, particularly to the victims of these heinous crimes. KSP is committed to protecting against sexual assault and fighting for justice for victims. This tweet — made by an individual employee — does not represent KSP or our mission, " the statement read.

Did other police departments tweet about avoiding drinking and driving?

The police in Cumberland, Maine, posted a humorous message to possible drunken drivers, but with less controversy.

The evening after the Super Bowl is one of the busiest for DUI convictions out of the entire year.