Michele Fiore, a Nevada Republican politician and former Las Vegas city councilwoman, was found guilty of using funds raised for a statue honoring a slain police officer for personal expenses, including plastic surgery. A jury convicted Fiore of six counts of federal wire fraud and one count of conspiracy to commit wire fraud. Prosecutors stated that Fiore raised over $70,000 for the statue but used the money for personal costs instead. The federal prosecutor described Fiore’s actions as using a tragedy to benefit herself. Fiore’s attorney stated that she plans to appeal the conviction. She is currently suspended without pay from her position as a justice of the peace in Pahrump, Nevada, and will be sentenced in January.
The FBI subpoenaed records and searched Fiore’s home in Las Vegas in 2021 in connection with her campaign spending. Fiore, who was appointed as a judge in Nye County in 2022 after losing a campaign for state treasurer, does not have a law degree. She was elected to complete the unexpired term of a judge who passed away. Pahrump, where Fiore serves as a justice of the peace, is located west of Las Vegas. Fiore, who has previously served in the state Legislature and as a Las Vegas councilwoman, is known for making headlines by posing with guns and her family for Christmas cards.
The weeklong trial in U.S. District Court in Nevada revealed that Fiore misused funds intended for honoring a fallen police officer. Instead of using the money for the intended purpose, Fiore spent it on plastic surgery, rent, and her daughter’s wedding. The jury found Fiore guilty on multiple counts of wire fraud and conspiracy to commit wire fraud. Each count carries a possible penalty of 20 years in prison. Despite the conviction, Fiore intends to appeal the decision. She will remain free while awaiting sentencing, which is scheduled for January 6. Fiore’s conviction highlights the consequences of misusing funds meant for a meaningful cause.
Fiore’s legal troubles stem from her actions involving the misappropriation of funds raised for a statue honoring a Las Vegas police officer who was killed in the line of duty in 2014. Prosecutors argued that Fiore used the tragedy to benefit herself, betraying the trust of those who donated to the cause. The investigation by the FBI into her campaign spending further added to the scrutiny surrounding Fiore’s actions. Despite the allegations and subsequent conviction, Fiore remains a prominent figure in Nevada politics, having served in various elected positions over the years. Her case underscores the importance of transparency and accountability in handling public funds and donations meant for charitable purposes.
Fiore’s involvement in the misuse of funds highlights the need for stricter oversight and accountability measures for elected officials and public figures. The conviction of a former state legislator and councilwoman sheds light on the consequences of betraying the trust placed in officials by donors and constituents. Fiore’s case serves as a cautionary tale for other politicians and public figures, emphasizing the importance of ethical conduct and responsible handling of charitable donations. As Fiore awaits sentencing and plans to appeal the conviction, the aftermath of her actions will continue to reverberate in Nevada’s political landscape, prompting a renewed focus on integrity and accountability in public service.
