Nakia Holmes, co-founder of the popular Houston restaurant Turkey Hut, is facing felony charges after allegedly intervening during the arrest of a man accused of assault and kidnapping.
The Arrest
According to Fox 26 Houston, court documents reveal that Jonathan Saizon allegedly kidnapped his ex-girlfriend and assaulted her with a tire iron. The woman’s son told police that she was held against her will for six hours. Saizon has since been charged with aggravated kidnapping and aggravated assault of a family member.
Authorities say Holmes became involved during the investigation and allegedly interfered with police efforts to arrest Saizon. The documents state that Harris County officers alleged that they saw Saizon in Holmes’ home at the end of her driveway. While being questioned by officers, she alleged that she had changed her story and said that she was picking up Saizon’s mother. She was taken into custody and now faces felony charges for obstructing justice.
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Holmes’ Legal and Financial Struggles
Holmes was still listed as the owner of Turkey Hut, though the restaurant has been closed for a year. Court filings show that she reported only $700 in assets. The business, once known for its viral food content and celebrity clientele, began to struggle amid allegations of financial misconduct.
Her personal life also faced turmoil. Holmes divorced her former husband and business partner, Lyndell Price, in 2023, citing abuse throughout their marriage. The business faced even more setbacks when the Turkey Leg Hut was destroyed in a fire in March 2024. Following the incident, the Houston Health Department permanently shut down the establishment. Bankruptcy filings reportedly added more financial difficulties.