Papi’s Restaurant releases statement after owner charged with 21 counts of sexual assault of a teen
LEXINGTON, Ky. (ABC 36 News Now) –
UPDATE: April 10 at 6:35 p.m.
Papi’s Restaurant has released a statement following the arrest of owner Marcos Jesus Banuelos Valdes, who is charged with 21 counts of sexual assault of a teenage employee.
“We are aware of recent allegations involving a former partial owner, and like many, we are shocked to learn of this situation.
Effective immediately, the individual is no longer affiliated with the business. We want to be clear that we do not condone any conduct that goes against our values or standards.
Our management team, and staff are at a loss for words. Out of respect for the seriousness of this matter and the legal process, we will not be commenting further at this time.
Thank you for understanding.”
– Papi’s Restaurant via Instagram
UPDATE: April 10 at 1:30 p.m.
59-year-old Marcos Jesus Banuelos Valdes pleaded not guilty Friday afternoon to 17 counts of third-degree rape and four counts of third-degree sodomy involving a minor.
During his court appearance, his attorney waived a formal arraignment and entered a not guilty plea.
A judge set his bond at $50,000. A preliminary hearing is scheduled for April 20.
Original Story:
A 59-year-old Lexington man is facing 21 charges after police say he sexually assaulted a 17-year-old employee over the course of several months.
Marcos Jesus Banuelos Valdes, identified on the Secretary of State website as the owner of Papi’s restaurant in Lexington, is charged with 17 counts of third-degree rape and four counts of third-degree sodomy.
According to a criminal complaint, Lexington Police were dispatched to a report of a sexual assault on March 27. Officers spoke with the mother of a 17-year-old girl, who said her daughter disclosed she was sexually assaulted by her employer, Valdes, between July 2025 and February 2026.
Investigators searched the teen’s phone and found a log in a notes application documenting at least 17 instances of sexual intercourse and at least four instances of deviate sexual intercourse.
Valdes was arrested on April 9. His bail was set at $50,000, and he is ordered to have no contact with the victim.
