9 May 2025
Earlier this week, chef Melissa Araujo was arrested on charges of government benefits fraud
On Wednesday, May 7, the Louisiana Bureau of Investigation arrested chef-owner Melissa Araujo of popular Honduran cafe Alma on charges of government benefits fraud. According to multiple news outlets, Araujo is said to have misrepresented her income in order to collect Medicaid benefits totalling $55,000.
According to NOLA.com, Araujo received deposits worth $384,147.51 in her personal bank account between June 2020 and September 2022. She allegedly told an employee of the Louisiana Department of Health that she had not “engaged in work” since 2022. Someone making over six figures would not typically be eligible for Medicaid benefits.
Additionally, the warrant obtained by WAFB, states Araujo purchased three properties worth $785,000 in total. She also allegedly received 1,266 deposits worth $3.1 million from 13 businesses linked to her.
Araujo released this statement after her arrest: “Following the news that broke yesterday, I want to acknowledge the situation and make it clear that I am fully cooperating with the ongoing investigation. I believe in transparency and I trust that the process will ultimately bring the truth to light and I will be cleared of these charges. My attorney has been, and will remain, in communication with the Louisiana Attorney General’s office. At this time, I ask for patience and privacy as the facts are thoroughly examined.”
Alma is best known for its modern interpretations of classic Honduran and American breakfasts. Araujo is a two-time James Beard Award semifinalist for Best Chef: South.
Alma started as a pop-up, an ode to Araujo’s Honduran heritage and her grandmother’s kitchen. In 2020, Araujo opened the first location of Alma in New Orleans’s Bywater neighborhood, and it quickly became a go-to for all-day brunch. In early February 2025, she opened a second location at 301 North Carrollton Avenue, adding an oyster bar, happy hour, and dinner to its repertoire.
Right now, Araujo is free on bond. If convicted, she faces up to five years of imprisonment and a fine of up to $10,000.