New Orleans Attorney Accused of Defrauding Client’s Family $250K
URGENT UPDATE: New Orleans defense attorney Tanzanika Ruffin faces serious allegations of defrauding a client’s family out of at least $250,000. A motion filed in criminal court on December 4, 2025, details how Ruffin allegedly misappropriated funds intended for legal matters that never existed.
The accusations stem from payments made by the family of defendant Kai Hansen, who was arrested for allegedly battering a police officer on Bourbon Street in March. Payments included $66,000 in April, nearly $13,000 in June, $90,000 in September, and over $100,000 in October. “You’re looking at a sizable sum of money,” stated Rafael Goyeneche, president of the Metropolitan Crime Commission.
Prosecutors from the Orleans Parish District Attorney’s Office assert that the payments were made under false pretenses. The motion indicates that Ruffin claimed the funds were necessary for what she described as an added criminal charge. However, it was revealed that no such charge ever existed.
Joe Raspanti, a FOX 8 legal analyst, commented, “If these allegations are correct, it’s an embarrassment for the entire profession.” The family alleges that Ruffin falsely stated that $250,000 in restitution was needed to settle Hansen’s case. This claim was reportedly fabricated, as the District Attorney’s Office asserts that no such discussions ever took place.
“Now, we’re in 2025, and we’re looking at her allegedly defrauding her client out of over $250,000… that’s shocking,” Goyeneche added. Prior to this incident, Ruffin faced disciplinary action in 2004 when she was suspended from practicing law for 30 days after threatening to arrest someone over an unpaid handyman bill.
Raspanti emphasized that Ruffin could face severe consequences, including criminal charges and disciplinary action from the Louisiana state bar. “She’s got a lot of problems if this is correct,” he warned.
As of now, Ruffin and her representatives have not commented on the allegations. The implications of this case could have lasting effects on the legal community in New Orleans, underscoring the critical importance of trust in the attorney-client relationship.
This developing story will continue to be monitored for updates.
