For a year and four months, Priscila Malpica has been fighting for the well-being of her son, Luis Armando Táriba Malpica, while he is incarcerated. Táriba Malpica was arrested on September 17, 2024, at his workplace in Valencia following an anonymous accusation that he was wearing camouflage clothing.
Since his arrest, the family has faced a criminal process that, according to his mother, lacks both evidence and logical basis. The 29-year-old graphic designer has been charged with terrorism, treason, criminal association, and conspiracy against a foreign government, as reported by El Carabobeño.
Priscila maintains that her son has not committed any of these crimes, stating he is not politically active, does not vote, does not speak English, and does not possess a passport. She also notes he has Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD).
The initial accusation stemmed from a woman who reportedly felt alarmed by frequently seeing a “U.S. military” figure. This suspicion was based on the camouflage clothing Táriba Malpica purchased from various vendors, and a small accessory featuring the American flag. Priscila Malpica stated, “You have to be very stupid not to distinguish between clothes from street vendors and a military uniform.”
Following his arrest, Táriba Malpica was held in multiple detention facilities, including the Sebin in Naguanagua, El Helicoide, and the PNB in La Yaguara. He reportedly fainted during one hearing due to stress and his heart condition.
In August of 2025, he was transferred to Tocuyito prison, where he remains.
A Mother’s Struggle
Priscila’s life has been drastically altered since her son’s arrest. She lost her job due to frequent trips to Caracas to seek answers from courts, public prosecutors, and the public defender’s office.
She has been unable to meet with Attorney General Tarek William Saab. Promised medical evaluations for her son in April 2025 have not yet been conducted.
Without a steady income, Priscila transitioned from offering rehabilitation therapies to selling bracelets and candies on the street. She spends hours in shopping centers, parks, and fairs to earn money to send care packages to her son.
“The day they took him away, I lost my own life,” she expressed.
Táriba Malpica has attempted suicide twice, and his depression is worsening due to separation from his three-year-old daughter. His daughter, according to her grandmother, is experiencing emotional distress, and his wife has developed hypertension.
Lack of Evidence
During a preliminary hearing in December 2024, it was acknowledged that there was no evidence against Táriba Malpica. Despite this, his release was not requested.
He has also been added to a case file alongside other detainees he met in prison, with his family lacking clarity regarding this connection.
Priscila continues to travel to Caracas when possible, though increasingly less frequently due to financial constraints.
“Leaving him there, knowing he did nothing wrong, is what hurts the most,” she stated. “He is a quiet boy. His daughter needs him.”
Frequently Asked Questions
How long has Luis Armando Táriba Malpica been detained?
Luis Armando Táriba Malpica has been detained for one year and four months as of the reporting date.
What charges has Luis Armando Táriba Malpica been facing?
He has been charged with terrorism, treason, criminal association, and conspiracy against a foreign government.
Has Priscila Malpica been able to meet with the Attorney General?
No, Priscila Malpica has not been able to meet with Attorney General Tarek William Saab.
Considering the reported lack of evidence and the impact on the family, what role might international attention play in cases like this?
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