prevented vs had prevented

[jose rocha]

Which tense fits better the passage below? Why?
Suddenly the police showed up and caught Maria in a violent way; she made a sign trying to say something but the police officers ___________(prevented/ had prevented) her from doing it. She was taken to the patrol car.

Thanks a million for your help.

[synp]

prevented is suitable

[MikeNewYork]

Which tense fits better the passage below? Why?
Suddenly the police showed up and caught Maria in a violent way; she made a sign trying to say something but the police officers ___________(prevented/ had prevented) her from doing it. She was taken to the patrol car.

Thanks a million for your help.

I agree with the simple past tense choice.

The second part of your first sentence is odd. It has Maria making a sign and the police preventing her from doing so. Try: she tried to make a sign...but the police offers prevented her....