Former Queens Defenders Leaders Sentenced for Embezzlement Scheme

A federal judge sentenced the cofounder of Queens Defenders, Lori Zeno, and her former husband, Rashad Ruhani, to prison on Tuesday for their roles in a scheme that drained hundreds of thousands of dollars from the legal aid nonprofit. U.S. District Judge Rachel P. Kovner handed down a three-and-a-half-year sentence to Zeno, 66, while Ruhani, 57, received a term of nearly five years.

The pair pleaded guilty to conspiracy charges, admitting they funneled more than $400,000 from the organization to fund personal expenses. According to federal prosecutors, the misappropriated funds covered luxury travel to Bali, high-end hotel stays, expensive dining, and various personal purchases, including an 85-inch television and cosmetic dental work.

In a letter submitted to the court, the organization described the betrayal as a weaponization of trust that undermined a critical provider of legal services for low-income residents. The fallout from the financial misconduct was severe, resulting in the loss of $35 million in government contracts and the closure of several community-based initiatives, including a justice center in Far Rockaway and various youth programs. Approximately 150 staff members were forced to transition to other organizations, while others faced layoffs.

During the proceedings, Zeno expressed remorse for the collapse of the institution she helped build over four decades. Her defense attorney argued that her actions were influenced by personal trauma and mental health struggles, while also noting that she had maintained a high salary during her tenure. Ruhani, who had previously served time in state prison, stated that he had intended to demonstrate a positive path after his release but failed to uphold the trust placed in him.

Beyond their prison terms, the defendants were ordered to pay more than $650,000 in restitution, along with individual forfeiture judgments exceeding $100,000 each. Zeno is expected to surrender to federal authorities in late September to begin her sentence. The organization, though significantly diminished in scope, continues to operate.