Woman Fingered in Wendy’s Lawsuit Claim; Las Vegas Police Report Arrest

The woman who reportedly found a finger in her bowl of Wendy’s chili last month has been arrested.

Authorities reported that Anna Ayala was taken into custody Thursday evening in Las Vegas. She was arrested on a warrant alleging grand larceny and attempted grand larceny.

Back in March, Ayala reportedly claimed that while dining at a Wendy’s in San Jose, California, she came across part of a finger in a bowl of chili. Police and health officials did a search involving the restaurant’s supply chain and reportedly found no evidence to back Ayala’s story.

Ayala, who has reportedly filed several claims over the years against different companies, retained a lawyer and filed a claim against the Wendy’s franchise owner, Fresno-based JEM Management. She later dropped the claim against the company.

Sales have fallen off at franchises in Northern California, forcing layoffs and reduced hours, according to the company.

“In regards to the San Jose incident, we’re thrilled that an arrest has been made. We applaud the efforts of the San Jose Police Department and other authorities, and we’re looking forward to hearing more details at the police department’s press conference scheduled for 1 p.m. Pacific time today,” said Tom Mueller, president and COO, Wendy’s North America.