Trump Pardons Nevada Politician Convicted of Fraud
LAS VEGAS (AP) — President Donald Trump has granted a pardon to Michele Fiore, a former Nevada politician found guilty of misappropriating funds intended for a memorial statue honoring a slain police officer. Fiore, who had served on the Las Vegas City Council and in the state legislature, faced sentencing next month for six counts of federal wire fraud and one count of conspiracy.
In a statement shared on Facebook, Fiore expressed her gratitude to Trump, claiming the U.S. government and certain media outlets had orchestrated a prolonged effort to dismantle her life. The White House confirmed the pardon but did not elaborate on the president’s reasoning.
Fiore’s legal troubles stemmed from accusations that she diverted over $70,000 raised for a statue of a police officer fatally shot in 2014 for personal expenses, including cosmetic surgery and family expenses. Federal prosecutor Dahoud Askar condemned Fiore’s actions, stating, “Michele Fiore used a tragedy to line her pockets.”
Just days before the pardon, Fiore had unsuccessfully sought a new trial. She was facing potential decades behind bars due to her convictions. Following these developments, she reportedly plans to resume her judicial duties next week in Nye County, Nevada, after having been suspended amid her legal struggles.
The Nevada Democratic Party criticized the pardon, labeling it “reckless” and a “slap in the face” to law enforcement. Fiore, who has gained national notoriety for her support of controversial figures during armed conflicts with federal authorities, previously served in various public offices.
As the state awaits further clarification on her suspension, the implications of Trump’s pardon on Fiore’s political future remain to be seen.
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