Funds

Gucci Heiress Secures $115 Million Verdict Against Step-Father for Childhood Sexual Abuse, Plans to Channel Funds into Children’s Foundations

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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 … Read more

Michigan Judge Weighs Controversial Decision on State Funds for Minor League Baseball Stadiums

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A Michigan judge is grappling with the complexities surrounding state budget allocations for minor league baseball stadiums. During a hearing on Tuesday, the judge expressed uncertainty over how to categorize the spending—whether it serves a local interest or a broader public purpose. The court session focused on a case questioning the legality of disbursing funds earmarked for the renovation and construction of two stadiums. The judge’s deliberations come in the wake of concerns that the financial support could strain state resources without yielding proportional benefits to citizens. Attorneys for both sides presented arguments regarding the … Read more

Judge Rules Against Trump’s Efforts to Cut Funds for Sanctuary Cities, Boosts Los Angeles Support

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A federal judge has ruled against former President Donald Trump’s attempt to limit federal funding for Los Angeles and other cities identified as sanctuary jurisdictions. The ruling, delivered in a California courtroom, underscored the ongoing legal battles surrounding immigration policies and the balance of power between the federal government and local municipalities. Sanctuary cities, which have adopted policies restricting cooperation with federal immigration enforcement, faced significant funding threats under the Trump administration. Judge André Birotte Jr.’s decision emphasized that the federal government could not impose conditions on grant funding that were not explicitly required by … Read more

Judge Declares Local School Property Taxes Unconstitutional, Demands State Funds to Ensure Adequate Education for All

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Concord, N.H. — Superior Court Judge David Ruoff has determined that the state of New Hampshire has failed to fulfill its obligation to adequately fund public education, a conclusion that extends to the unconstitutionality of varying local school property tax rates across municipalities. Ruoff’s ruling arises from a lawsuit filed by property taxpayers, including Steven Rand, following a New Hampshire Supreme Court decision in July. The high court had upheld Ruoff’s earlier determination that the state’s funding of $4,182 per pupil is “facially unconstitutional,” while affirming his assessment that an adequate funding level is $7,356.01 … Read more