A nurse might have been let go after sharing a video on social media that seemed to suggest people poison Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) agents to disrupt immigration enforcement efforts.
The clip, which went viral on TikTok, is reportedly attributed to Malinda Rose Cook, who was associated with Virginia Commonwealth University Medical Center.
In the initial video, Cook seemingly states, “I’ve thought of something clever. It’s a sabotage tactic, or at least a way to scare them. Health workers, get some syringes filled with saline or even succinylcholine. Whatever works, it might serve as a deterrent. Just be safe.” Succinylcholine is known as a muscle relaxant used for short-term paralysis during procedures.
In a follow-up video, while clad in scrubs, she appeared to mention, “For today’s resistance tip, I wonder if anyone’s thought about planting poison ivy in their gardens? Be sure to wear gloves and soak it first.” She then described the process of soaking poison ivy and oak in water and using that water to fill a squirt gun.
She advises targeting the face and hands.
In what seems to be the third video, she encourages single women to use dating apps to arrange meetings with ICE agents, suggesting, “They’re working for ICE. You could slip something into their drinks to make them feel sick. Nobody’s actually going to die; it’ll just incapacitate them for a bit. Make them think, ‘I’m never eating there again.’ And let’s take them out for a meal.” She also mentioned tracking down hotels where these agents stay, saying, “Let’s find out who’s making their breakfast and where they dine.” She added, “Let’s make their lives miserable,” and went on to suggest hiding dead fish in hotel rooms, concluding with, “Just stay toxic.”
The health system released a statement confirming they had placed the nurse on administrative leave while they investigated the situation. “We prioritize the health and safety of those who seek our care. We’re aware of these videos, which don’t align with the values of our health system,” the statement indicated.
Later that day, it was reported that Cook’s employment had been terminated. The investigation concluded that those recorded in the videos were not employed by VCU Health; additionally, the organization met its obligations under Virginia law.
Previously, Cook had mentioned her connection to VCU Health on their website, although that information has since been removed.
