Heiress

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

by

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

Former Police Officer Charged with Child Pornography Enlists New York Attorney from High-Profile Cases; Comparison to Fake Heiress ‘Inventing Anna’ Made

by

Smyrna, Delaware – Former police officer Michael Anthony Kealty, who is facing charges of distributing and possessing child pornography, has had the deadline for his indictment extended by federal prosecutors. Kealty, who has been in custody since his arrest in October, has retained New York Attorney Todd Spodek, known for his involvement in high-profile cases, including that of Anna Sorokin, the fake heiress who inspired the Netflix series “Inventing Anna.” Spodek has also represented law enforcement officers facing charges, such as the Paterson, New Jersey officers accused of using excessive force. The defense attorney emphasized … Read more