Former NYC Legal Aid Leader Sentenced for $100K Embezzlement

WHO:

NY Post - Lori Zeno, founder of Queens Defenders and former director of the organization.

Gothamist - Lori Zeno, cofounder of Queens public defender organization.

WHAT:

NY Post - Lori Zeno was sentenced to federal prison for embezzling more than $100,000 from Queens Defenders.

Gothamist - Zeno and her ex-husband used the organization's funds to purchase an 85-inch TV, a penthouse apartment, and other luxury items.

WHERE:

Gothamist - The sentencing took place at a federal courthouse in Queens.

WHY:

NY Post - Zeno blamed her ex-con lover for her actions during the sentencing.

HOW:

NY Post - Zeno admitted to embezzling funds to support a lavish lifestyle.

(UPDATED July 29, 2026 01:28 UTC)

Lori Zeno, the founder of Queens Defenders, has been sentenced to federal prison for embezzling over $100,000 from the organization, with the sentencing occurring at a federal courthouse in Queens. Zeno and her ex-husband reportedly used the stolen funds to buy luxury items, including an 85-inch TV and a penthouse apartment. During the sentencing, Zeno attributed her actions to her ex-con lover, admitting that she embezzled the funds to maintain a lavish lifestyle.