Chef Chelo Arrested for Domestic Violence Charges

Luna Contreras, a well-known Portland chef and the creative force behind Chelo, a Mexican pop-up restaurant and hot sauce line, was arrested on December 19th. She is facing multiple misdemeanor charges, including those related to domestic violence, assault, and harassment against her intimate partner. Court documents detail an incident where Contreras allegedly arrived intoxicated, initiated physical contact, and threw a glass bottle.

During the incident, Contreras's partner reportedly pushed her out of the residence and secured the door. When building security arrived, Contreras is accused of attempting to deploy a taser on an officer, though security successfully disarmed her before anyone was harmed. The Chelo pop-up, which had recently gained local recognition, closed on the same day as her arrest.

Contreras, who was named Eater Portland's Chef of the Year in 2023 and appeared on Netflix's Snack v. Chef, pleaded not guilty to all charges at her arraignment on December 22nd. She was released on her own recognizance and is scheduled for her next court appearance on January 20th.