Who is Alexandra Zarini? Gucci Heiress granted $115 Million in Sexual Abuse Case Against Stepfather

On Tuesday, September 16, 2025, Los Angeles Superior Court delivered a landmark verdict in favor of Gucci heiress Alexandra Zarini. The 40-year-old handbag designer was granted $115 million in damages after accusing her stepfather, Joseph Ruffalo, of years of sexual abuse that began when she was just six years old.

The case lasted for over two hours and forty minutes before the jury of six men and six women reached a unanimous decision. The jury found Ruffalo guilty of sexual abuse and willful infliction of mental distress.

The Courtroom Verdict

The hearing took place in Department 57 of Los Angeles Superior Court. Alexandra Zarini sat in the front row, beside her husband, wearing a black jacket, leggings, blouse, and flat shoes. When the verdict was read, she shed a tear but remained composed.

Speaking to the press afterward, she said she was “extremely grateful” and praised the jury for their support. She also admitted the trial was “really hard, scary, painful.”

Family Struggles and Divorce

In 2007, Alexandra’s mother, Patricia Gucci, divorced Joseph Ruffalo after her daughter came forward with serious accusations. Patricia, the only daughter of Aldo Gucci, separated from Ruffalo after years of family turmoil.

Zarini later revealed that she had turned to drugs to cope with the pain of abuse. She admitted using medicines to numb her emotions, though this only worsened her condition.

Who Is Alexandra Zarini?

Alexandra Gucci Zarini was born in 1985. She is the great-granddaughter of Guccio Gucci, the founder of the luxury fashion empire, and the granddaughter of Aldo Gucci.

She is the founder of the Alexandra Gucci Children’s Foundation, an organization dedicated to protecting children from abuse. She also launched AGCF, a mission-driven luxury fashion brand with a social purpose.

Zarini is married to Josef Zarini, who has a professional background in venture capital and investment banking.

A Landmark Case for Survivors

The $115 million award marks a significant moment for victims of abuse. The case has drawn worldwide attention, not only because of Zarini’s Gucci family background but also for the courage she showed in standing against her abuser.

She hopes her victory will encourage more survivors to speak out and fight for justice.