New York Public Defender Victoria Ruiz Resigns After Tearing Down Posters of Hamas Kidnap Victims

Ruiz resigns amidst backlash and condemnation from employers at New York County Defender Services and social media users, raising questions on her ability to perform her duties without prejudice.

Victoria Ruiz, a public defender with the New York County Defender Services, has resigned effective immediately after being filmed tearing down posters of Israeli hostages taken by Hamas.
The incident was pointed out by StopAntisemitism, and the video gained widespread attention on social media. Consequently, Ruiz faced severe backlash and condemnation from employers and social media users.
The public defenders' employer, the New York County Defender Services, has strongly condemned Ruiz's actions, stating that they are highly insensitive and inappropriate for someone in her position.
Lupe Todd-Medina, a spokesperson for the New York County Defender Services, accepted Ruiz's apology and stated that, following an internal review, they are refocusing on the pursuit of justice and dignity for everyone they represent.
Liora Rez, executive director of StopAntisemitism, expressed concerns about Ruiz's ability to perform her duties without bias and stated that she was pleased to hear about Ruiz's resignation.