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On-Camera Arrest of Grand Rapids Protest Organizer Draws National Scrutiny

Police cite roadway obstruction following repeated orders to move to the sidewalk.

Overview

  • Viral video shows organizer Jessica Plichta handcuffed immediately after a WZZM interview at a Jan. 3 march opposing U.S. action in Venezuela.
  • Grand Rapids police say she was detained for obstructing a roadway after more than 25 PA announcements instructing the group to leave the street.
  • Officials say supervisors authorized arrests once individuals were identified, and officers made the on-camera arrest following the march.
  • Plichta was released from Kent County Jail after about three hours, and she told local media she has not been notified of formal charges.
  • Plichta says she was the only arrest among roughly 200 protesters and questions the timing as national outlets highlight the incident.