Michelea Ponce Apologizes to Elderly Target Worker Jeannie as Police Investigate Viral Video

Michelea Ponce has issued a public apology to an elderly Target employee identified as Jeannie following a viral video that sparked widespread criticism and prompted a police investigation.

According to information obtained by our newsroom, the incident is currently under review by law enforcement.

Viral Video Sparks Backlash

In the widely circulated video, Ponce is seen confronting and verbally harassing the elderly woman while she was working at a Target store. The employee was reportedly targeted for wearing a Charlie Kirk “Freedom” shirt.

Ponce, who has described herself as an anti-racism advocate, recorded the encounter and later shared it online. Rather than raising her concerns with store management, the confrontation unfolded publicly, drawing criticism for singling out a low-wage senior worker during her shift.

The video shows Ponce insulting the employee, including calling her “stupid,” which many viewers described as inappropriate and demeaning.

Public Apology Issued

Following the backlash, Ponce released a statement taking responsibility for her actions and offering a direct apology to the employee and others affected.

Statement from Michelea Ponce:

“I want to take full responsibility for my actions and say clearly and sincerely that I was wrong. I behaved badly, and I regret it deeply.

I want to directly apologize to Jeannie. I am truly sorry for approaching you at your workplace and putting you in an uncomfortable and unfair position. You did not deserve that, and my behavior was wrong.

I also apologize to Jeannie’s family for the stress and attention my actions caused. I apologize to Target as her employer, I apologize to Enloe, and I apologize to the Chico community. I understand that what I did reflected poorly on myself and disrupted a sense of safety and respect that should exist in a workplace and in our community.

I did not handle the situation the way I should have. I allowed my emotions to take over instead of choosing restraint and empathy. That was my failure, and I own it.

I regret my actions, and I am genuinely sorry for the harm they caused. I wish I could go back and undo what happened, but I can acknowledge it honestly, learn from it, and commit to doing better moving forward.”

Investigation Ongoing

Authorities have not yet released additional details regarding the investigation or whether charges may be filed. The situation remains under review.