A VCU nurse’s TikTok videos encouraging the sabotage of ICE agents have sparked national outrage, highlighting the volatile intersection of social media and federal law enforcement. VCU Nurse’s Controversial Social Media Posts The controversy erupted when a nurse at Virginia Commonwealth University (VCU) Health System posted videos on TikTok under the account “Redheadredemption.” These videos advocated for the sabotage of ICE agents by using syringes filled with substances like succinylcholine as a form of intimidation. The videos also suggested using laxatives in drinks and targeting ICE agents’ food and lodging. The nature of these suggestions, coming from someone in the healthcare profession, alarmed many and prompted immediate action from VCU. Meet Melinda, a healthcare worker at @VCUHealth. She posted a series of videos encouraging people to inject ICE agents with succinylocholine, a temporary paralysis drug, and spray poison on them. She also encourages woman to go on dates with agents and drug their food. Any… pic.twitter.com/CMJN12GhOc — Libs of TikTok (@libsoftiktok) January 27, 2026 The videos quickly went viral after being shared by the X account LibsOfTikTok, known for exposing controversial content. This resulted in significant public outrage and led VCU to place the nurse on administrative leave pending an investigation. VCU Health and VCU Police are actively involved in this investigation to ensure that the nurse’s actions do not compromise the safety and integrity of the healthcare system. Public and Institutional Reactions The incident has sparked a national conversation about the limits of free speech for public employees, especially those in sensitive roles like healthcare. VCU released a statement condemning the nurse’s actions, emphasizing that the content does not reflect the institution’s values. Meanwhile, the National Nurses United (NNU), the largest nurses’ union in the U.S., has called for the abolition of ICE in the wake of recent events, including the killing of VA nurse Alex Pretti by a Border Patrol agent. VCU Health Nurse Placed on Leave, Facing Investigation After Urging the Poisoning of ICE Agents She should be arrested, IMO! People like this should never be able to work in the HC industry! Whatever happened to "Do no Harm"? From the article: Anyone who was paying… pic.twitter.com/C0WOHTjlC2 — NWRain-Judi (@RYboating) January 27, 2026 These developments come amid heightened tensions over U.S. immigration enforcement under the Trump administration. Recent ICE operations in cities like Minneapolis have led to protests and clashes, further polarizing public opinion. The ongoing investigations by VCU and potential legal repercussions for the nurse underscore the serious implications of using social media to incite harm against federal officials. Broader Implications and Future Outlook This incident is a stark reminder of the power and risks associated with social media platforms. In the short term, the nurse faces disciplinary actions, and there is a heightened risk of protests and violence in areas with active ICE operations. In the long term, there could be significant policy debates over ICE funding and the need for stricter social media guidelines for healthcare workers. This case also highlights broader societal divisions over immigration enforcement and the role of federal agencies. As the investigation proceeds, it will be crucial for institutions like VCU to navigate these challenges while upholding their commitment to patient safety and professional accountability. Sources: Police Investigate VCU Nurse Who Instructed Sabotage of ICE Agents in Viral TikTok Videos National Nurses United Outraged by Murder of VA Registered Nurse by Immigration Agents Nurses Union Calls ICE Agents a Public Health Threat After Alex Pretti Killing Who Was Alex Pretti, the VA Nurse Shot by Border Patrol During Minnesota Protest?