A food stand in Southwest Detroit has been closed after co-owner Nayeli Ruiz, 26, was charged with a felony. Ruiz was arraigned in 36th District Court with a $10,000 bond. Her next court hearing is scheduled for September 26, and if convicted, she could face up to two years in jail, as reported by The Detroit News.
On Sunday, Detroit police went to 2121 Springwells Street, where Ruiz was operating a food stand without a merchant’s license. She allegedly refused to comply when officers tried to shut it down and was arrested for resisting and obstructing a police officer. At her arraignment, Ruiz said, "When can I tell my side of the story, because I do have video," according to ClickOnDetroit. She was released on a personal bond and is scheduled for a preliminary examination on October 3.
First Assistant Chief Charles Fitzgerald of the Detroit police said the situation escalated because of non-cooperation, stating, "When someone asks for identification or a permit, there's a very good chance the young lady would have walked away with shutting her operation down," as mentioned by CBS News Detroit. He noted that a health department license is also required for food sales. Neighbor Jermaine McCleskey commented, "It's like he didn't wanna hear anything she had to say." Ruiz's business partner and boyfriend, Jason Hernandez, said, "We’ll be back," indicating they plan to get the necessary permits to operate legally, as per ClickOnDetroit.
