GRAND RAPIDS, Mich. – A 22-year-old preschool teacher was arrested on live television this weekend immediately after criticizing the recent U.S. military operation in Venezuela. The incident has gone viral, sparking a national debate over free speech and the policing of anti-war protests.
Jessica Plichta, an organizer with the group Grand Rapids Opponents of War, was being interviewed on camera regarding the U.S. military’s capture of Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro. Moments after she stated, “It’s the responsibility of the people to resist a Trump administration committing crimes both at home and against people in Venezuela,” two police officers approached her from behind.
As the camera rolled, officers instructed Plichta to put her hands behind her back. In the footage, Plichta appears shocked but calm, stating repeatedly, “I am not resisting arrest” as she is handcuffed and led away.
Police Cite Failure to Obey Commands
The Grand Rapids Police Department stated that Plichta was not arrested for her comments but for her conduct during the demonstration. Officials noted that the group of approximately 200 protesters had been blocking traffic and refused multiple “lawful commands” to move to the sidewalk.
Authorities emphasized that blocking traffic violates city and state law. Police indicated that officers had issued over 25 warnings via loudspeaker before taking action. Plichta has been charged with failure to obey a lawful command and obstructing a roadway.
However, Plichta and her supporters argue the timing was targeted. Plichta noted that she was the only person arrested out of the crowd of 200, and it happened precisely as she finished her interview. She described being driven a short distance away, patted down, and having her belongings seized.
Operation Absolute Resolve
The protest was a response to “Operation Absolute Resolve,” a U.S. military raid conducted on Jan. 3, 2026, which resulted in the capture of Nicolás Maduro in Caracas. President Donald Trump announced the success of the operation, stating that U.S. forces had extracted the Venezuelan leader to face drug trafficking and narco-terrorism charges in New York.
The operation has polarized the American public. Recent polling indicates that only 33% of Americans approve of the strike. The data highlights a stark partisan divide, with significant support from Republicans and low approval from Democrats. Additionally, nearly three-quarters of respondents expressed concern that the U.S. would become “too involved” in Venezuelan affairs.
Growing Tensions
Plichta’s arrest has become a flashpoint for civil liberties advocates, who worry it signals an escalation in how dissent is handled. Plichta remarked that while repression is often expected during anti-war protests, the specific nature of this arrest was concerning.
As Maduro awaits trial in federal court, protests—both in support of and against the U.S. intervention—are expected to continue. Plichta was released from jail three hours after her arrest and says she intends to fight the charges.
