Palm Beach Michelin-Starred Chef Arrested For Domestic Battery

In June 2025, the head chef of Palm Beach County’s only Michelin-starred restaurant was arrested and charged after allegedly beating a female family member for two hours. The victim was able to escape after those hours had passed, but wound up in the hospital after doctors determined she had suffered a traumatic brain injury (TBI). The chef was charged with both battery and domestic battery, and his case is pending as of this writing.

Is This Domestic Violence?

Florida’s domestic violence statute covers more than just spouses or ex-spouses, considering any criminal offense resulting in “physical injury or death” committed against a “family or household member” of the perpetrator as falling under that umbrella. Specifically, a “family or household member” can be a spouse, ex-spouse, unmarried co-parent, someone related by blood or marriage, or people who are/were ‘residing together as a family.’

While the alleged victim is not being named in the press, it is reasonable to assume that she fits this definition, as the chef was charged with domestic battery specifically. Domestic battery is a type of aggravated battery intended as a charge encompassing allegations of domestic violence – in other words, only those suspected of a domestic violence offense are charged with the offense.

Potential Consequences Of Conviction Can Be Lifelong

While it remains to be seen what the ultimate outcome of the chef’s case will be, it is worth examining the situation. If you have been charged with domestic battery, it is crucial that you take the charges seriously, despite it only being a misdemeanor. While a conviction on a domestic battery charge will only result in up to 1 year in jail, there are several other potential consequences that can cause long-term trouble if you are found guilty.

Perhaps the most serious consequence is that in Florida, a conviction for domestic battery will result in not only jail time, but also a permanent criminal record, viewable for potential future landlords and employers. State law prohibits anyone who is convicted of one or more of a certain list of offenses from expunging their criminal record, with battery near the top of the list.

Call A West Palm Beach Domestic Violence Attorney

As of this writing, the chef awaits trial, with a bond at $90,000. If you have been charged with domestic violence in Palm Beach County, consulting a West Palm Beach criminal defense attorney from Perlet & Shiner, P.A. can help ensure your rights are protected. Contact our office today to speak to an attorney.

Source:

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