NEW ORLEANS (WGNO) – A well-known baker and actor arrested for theft is free on bond. Dwight Henry is accused of stealing money from his former employer.
WGNO News Reporter Darian Trotter was at the jail when Henry was released. He has details on the charges and reaction from the local celebrity.
“This isn’t a story about the facts of this case. This is a story about who he is,” Henry’s attorney Bobby Hjortsberg said.
Dwight Henry made no comment as he walked out of the Orleans Parish Jail accompanied by his attorney.
The well-known, local baker and actor surrendered to law enforcement authorities Thursday morning on a theft charge.
Henry, best known for his roles in the Oscar winning movies “12 Years a Slave” and “Beasts of the Southern Wild,” is accused of barging into the Buttermilk Drop Bakery last month, convincing staffers that he’s part owner, and stealing about $1,000 from the cash register.
“Mr. Henry has absolutely no business interest in this particular establishment,” Wayne Woods said.
Henry told reporter Darian Trotter, off camera, that he has been short-changed in a gentleman’s agreement
“He’s a former employee. The relationship actually terminated more than two years ago. So for him to come in the business and act the way that he acted. I don’t know what motivated him to do that. I don’t know why he would do that,” Woods said.
Henry told reporter Darian Trotter, off camera, that he has been short-changed in a gentleman’s agreement and business deal at the shop where he once served as head baker.
“This is a business dispute. The charges currently against him are baseless,” Hjortsberg said.
Henry now runs Wink’s Buttermilk Drop Bakery and Bistro located in the French Quarter; where employees describe the actor as humble and hard-working.
“Beautiful spirited person. Outgoing, always smiling when you see him. Help anyone,” Kawanda Lewis said. “He donates to the homeless shelter and to charities. He donates donuts. He comes in himself and bakes himself.”
According to statements filed in a police report, Henry allegedly threatened former employer Darius Henry by phone; stating “(Expletive), you don’t know who you are (expletive) with.” “I’m with the Black Mafia.” “I will kill you and your entire family, (expletive).”
Henry says he’s hurt because he’s been betrayed by the former employer who is still capitalizing off of his legacy.
“I just hope everything just works out for the best for him,” Lewis said.
“You know we look forward to having this thing play out and I’m confident it’s going to play out in his favor,” Hjortsberg said.
Henry says the betrayal of his former employer is based on jealously over his Hollywood successes.
Given the serious nature of the alleged threats, a restraining order has been filed against Henry.