President Trump has pardoned Las Vegas politician Michele Fiore, who was convicted of using funds meant for a slain police officer’s statue on personal expenses, including plastic surgery. Fiore, a former city councilwoman and Nevada state lawmaker, was found guilty of wire fraud and conspiracy charges last year. Her lawyers filed a motion to vacate her sentencing date after receiving a pardon from Trump.
Fiore had raised over $70,000 for a statue honoring a fallen officer but used some of the funds for cosmetic surgery, rent, and her daughter’s wedding. She faced the possibility of decades in prison before being pardoned. Fiore gained national attention for supporting Cliven Bundy during armed standoffs with federal agents.
The Nevada Democratic Party Executive Director criticized the pardon as reckless and a slap in the face to law enforcement. Fiore, who was appointed as a judge in Nye County in 2022, plans to return to the bench next week. The county is awaiting an update on her current suspension status from the state Commission on Judicial Discipline.
President Trump has been using his pardoning power extensively in his second term, with notable pardons including individuals involved in the Capitol riot and Silk Road founder Ross Ulbricht. The pardon of Fiore comes after she lost a bid for a new trial and a week before her sentencing date. Her statement on Facebook thanked Trump and accused the government and media of targeting her.
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