Michele Fiore, a prominent Nevada figure and current judge, is facing new challenges after a recent fraud conviction.
According to APNews, Michele Fiore was found guilty of misappropriating $70,000 meant for a memorial and has been removed from her Pahrump judge's seat without pay.
The Nevada Commission on Judicial Discipline took decisive action following the federal jury's guilty verdict against Michele Fiore. She was found guilty of diverting funds intended for a memorial statue of a slain Las Vegas police officer to cover personal expenses. The funds were originally raised to honor an officer who lost his life in the line of duty in 2014.
The decision to suspend Fiore without pay was recently submitted to the Nevada Supreme Court. This followed a hearing that took place last week. Initially, after her indictment on federal wire fraud and conspiracy charges, Fiore had been suspended with pay since July, a status that has since changed following her conviction.
The trial, which concluded on October 3, presented evidence that Michele Fiore diverted about $70,000 for her personal needs. Expenditures allegedly included cosmetic surgery, rent, and expenses for her daughter's wedding. The federal jury took a week to deliberate and reach a guilty verdict.
Fiore's actions led to a significant breach of trust, as the community had contributed to the memorial effort, expecting the funds to serve a meaningful purpose. Her conviction has raised concerns about the responsibilities and ethical standards of public officials.
Michele Fiore, 54, is no stranger to Nevada politics and public service. She previously represented Nevada in the state Assembly and also served on the Las Vegas City Council. Her judicial appointment in Pahrump in 2022 came after an unsuccessful bid for the state treasurer's seat.
Nye County lawmakers appointed her to the judge position after her campaign loss. She won an election in June to fill the unexpired term of a judge who had passed away. Fiore's political journey has been tumultuous, culminating in her current legal predicament.
As of now, Fiore remains free while awaiting her sentencing, which is set for January 6, 2024. The possibility looms that she could face decades behind bars if given the maximum sentence for her crimes.
Despite her conviction, Michele Fiore is reportedly planning to challenge the jury's verdict. According to her former attorney, she intends to appeal the ruling. Her current legal representative, Paola Armeni, did not respond to requests for comments on her behalf.
Fiore, renowned for her staunch support of gun rights and advocacy for state sovereignty, has been a polarizing figure. Her backing of activist Cliven Bundy in 2014 and 2016 during high-profile disputes with federal authorities cemented her status as a vocal supporter of individual rights.
The upcoming months will be crucial for Fiore as she seeks to overturn her conviction and avoid substantial prison time. Her political and legal strategies are likely to garner significant attention.
Michele Fiore’s situation is a potent reminder of the ethical expectations placed upon public officials. Her suspension without pay underscores the severity of her conviction and reflects the commission's stance on accountability.
