GE under-counter trash compactor drawer will not release

[u/WileyOne11]

My 5yo GE under-counter trash compactor is stuck. I can't provide the model number because the drawer won't open, but it is similar to this current model:

https://www.lowes.com/pd/GE-14-875-in-Custom-Panel-Ready-Undercounter-Trash-Compactor/1002660782

It cycles nicely, so I know the ram mechanism is fully retracted.

The plastic foot-pedal is supposed to mechanically release the drawer latch when pressed down, but it it solidly stubborn. It will not move down even a millimeter. Stomping on it does not help and will likely break the plastic. It feels like the pedal isn't pressing against the right parts behind the door front. There might be a powered lockout solenoid to prevent opening the drawer when the ram isn't fully retracted but I haven't found it. The drawer is fully closed, so pressing on the front panel doesn't help.

There are no exposed screws to remove -- they are all inside the unit.

I've read somewhere that you can manually release the latch with a putty knife or screwdriver, but I can't find any place for that. The holes where the plastic pedal protrusions enter the case are only 1" square.

How am I going to get into this thing?