Domestic violence: Chef Jean Imbert's custody lifted, transferred to Paris court

Renowned chef Jean Imbert has been transferred to the Paris tribunal after concluding 36 hours in police custody, according to a source close to the investigation. The former Plaza Athénée chef is facing accusations of domestic violence from at least three former partners, who allege both physical and psychological abuse.

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He told me that my red lipstick was a slutty thing (...) Everything about me was disturbing.

Imbert was detained since Monday morning as part of a preliminary investigation opened in the summer of 2025. Among the accusers is Alexandra Rosenfeld, Miss France 2006, who has detailed alleged incidents, including a fractured nose during a television show filming. Rosenfeld also spoke of daily verbal abuse, with Imbert allegedly demeaning her background and friends.

Another former partner, actress Lila Salet, filed a complaint against the chef in August 2025, which led to the investigation. Kelly Santos, who dated Imbert between 2023 and 2024, also shared her experiences with the magazine ELLE, describing "violent bites" and insults, including comments about her appearance.

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I was a social case if I wore sportswear, if I dressed up, I was a whore.

Imbert's lawyers, Jacqueline Laffont and Julie Benedetti, stated that the chef provided investigators with "numerous documents and material evidence" supporting his version of events. He is expected to appear before a magistrate on Wednesday morning, potentially facing charges.

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Jean Imbert came to his hearing with numerous documents, pieces, as many solid material elements that support his version of the facts.