A Nevada Republican politician has been found guilty of using $70,000 raised for a statue of a slain police officer to pay for plastic surgery and her daughter’s wedding. Michele Fiore, known for her pro-gun and anti-vaccine stance, faced more than a half-dozen felony charges for misusing the funds meant for a memorial to a police officer killed in the line of duty. The 54-year-old MAGA-centric Republican was suspended from her position as a Nye County justice of the peace in July after a federal grand jury indictment was issued, accusing her of wire fraud and conspiracy.
Fiore, who previously served in the Nevada State Assembly, was convicted on all seven counts after a short deliberation by the jury. The charges stemmed from a scheme that unfolded over seven months, during which Fiore allegedly diverted the donation money raised for the memorial statue to personal expenses. Despite the guilty verdict, Fiore maintained her innocence outside the courthouse, hinting at undisclosed information that her attorney would reveal to the public.
The indictment details how Fiore solicited donations under false pretenses, claiming the funds were for a memorial statue to fallen Las Vegas Metro PD Officer Alyn Beck. Prosecutors alleged that Fiore instead used the money to support her lavish lifestyle, laundering it through front companies and relatives. The misuse of funds came to light when Fiore unveiled the statue in January 2020, falsely stating that the City of Las Vegas had provided discretionary funds for the project.
Fiore’s controversial background includes publicly supporting Nevada rancher and militia leader Cliven Bundy, whom she labelled a “freedom fighter.” In addition to her political career, Fiore co-wrote, produced, and starred in a film prior to her involvement in politics. Her past business ventures have faced scrutiny, with a home healthcare agency she operated being shut down for non-compliance with state regulations.
Despite facing legal troubles, Fiore continued to engage in divisive activities, such as agreeing to co-host a Blue Lives Matter march following the death of George Floyd in 2020. The politician, who also ran unsuccessful campaigns for governor and state treasurer, is set to be sentenced in January 2025, with each count against her carrying a maximum of 20 years in prison.