A jury in Los Angeles awarded $115 million to Alexandra Zarini, the heiress of the Gucci fashion dynasty, in a civil case against her former stepfather, Joseph Ruffalo. The decision came after a trial where Zarini accused Ruffalo of persistent sexual abuse beginning in her early childhood.
The jury determined that Ruffalo, who produced films in the 1980s including “Purple Rain,” was liable for sexual battery and causing intentional emotional distress. Despite the substantial verdict, Ruffalo’s defense claimed he was unable to pay the awarded damages.
During the proceedings, Zarini’s attorney, Gary A. Dordick, pressed Ruffalo for financial records that were essential to the case. “You didn’t bring any of that, is that correct?” Dordick asked. Ruffalo conceded that he had not provided those documents and noted that he carries significant credit card debt, claiming he had spent “hundreds of thousands” on legal defenses since the lawsuit was initiated in 2020.
Zarini, who is the great-granddaughter of Guccio Gucci, asserted in her lawsuit that she had been abused by Ruffalo from the age of six. Additionally, she claimed that her mother, Patricia Gucci, and grandmother, Bruna Palombo, created an environment that allowed the abuse to occur, alleging they pressured her to remain silent to protect the family’s reputation. The case, filed in September 2020, also initially included allegations against Palombo and the Gucci brand, although the court later dismissed Palombo from the suit and Zarini dropped claims against the fashion house this month.
During closing arguments regarding punitive damages, Ruffalo’s attorney, Jilbert Tahmazian, highlighted Ruffalo’s financial struggles, noting he had sought financial assistance from friends and had even moved in with someone from his church. Tahmazian argued that punitive damages should reflect an individual’s ability to pay.
However, Dordick countered his claims, stating that being financially irresponsible does not absolve one of responsibility. “It’s not a defense,” he asserted, emphasizing the moral obligation of holding offenders accountable.
Following the verdict, Donna A. Rotunno, representing Ruffalo, expressed disappointment, asserting the jury’s decision did not align with the facts of the case. She advocated for changes in laws that govern such cases, emphasizing the challenges faced by defendants when allegations emerge many years after the incidents occurred.
Zarini expressed her gratitude for the jury’s support, with Dordick noting her desire for awareness regarding survivors of abuse. “This verdict reflects that the jury heard her,” he said, conveying that it symbolizes recognition of Zarini’s ordeal.
In a spirit of philanthropy, Zarini intends to donate her awarded funds to children’s foundations. Dordick revealed that she is committed to helping children through her own initiative, the Alexandra Gucci Children’s Foundation, stating that this financial recovery will further the positive impact she aims to make.
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