Former Councilwoman Convicted in Case of Misused Memorial Funds

Former Councilwoman Convicted in Case of Misused Memorial Funds

Former Las Vegas City Councilwoman Michele Fiore has been convicted of wire fraud for misusing memorial funds intended to honor a fallen police officer.

At a Glance

  • Michele Fiore has been found guilty of seven federal wire fraud charges.
  • The funds were meant for a memorial statue of slain Officer Alyn Beck.
  • The prosecution alleged Fiore used money for personal expenses.
  • Each charge carries a maximum sentence of 20 years in prison.
  • Sentencing is scheduled for January 6; Fiore remains free until then.

Fiore Convicted in Charity Fraud Scheme

Michele Fiore, a former Las Vegas City Councilwoman and current Nye County justice of the peace, has been convicted of six charges of wire fraud and one of conspiracy to commit wire fraud. The case revolves around the misuse of funds intended for a memorial statue honoring fallen police officer Alyn Beck. Prosecutors successfully argued that Fiore diverted approximately $70,000 of donated money for personal expenses, including rent, plastic surgery, and her daughter’s wedding.

The conviction marks a significant fall from grace for Fiore, who has been a controversial figure in Nevada politics. Each charge carries a potential maximum sentence of 20 years in prison, highlighting the severity of her actions. Fiore’s defense team argued there was insufficient evidence, citing a lack of receipts and questioning the FBI’s investigation methods.

Misuse of Memorial Funds

The fraud scheme centered on donations collected for a memorial to honor Officer Alyn Beck, who was tragically killed in the line of duty. Fiore, leveraging her position and influence, solicited contributions from well-meaning donors who believed their money would go towards commemorating a fallen hero. Instead, evidence presented at trial showed that Fiore transferred funds from her nonprofit and political action committee to her daughter, which were then used for personal expenses.

“She never cared about Officer Beck’s memory or his sacrifice,” federal prosecutor Alexander Gottfried stated. “She took those donors’ money. She took it from people who were trying to do a good thing.”

The prosecution’s case painted a picture of a public official who exploited a tragedy for personal gain, betraying both the memory of a fallen officer and the trust of her constituents. This breach of trust is particularly egregious given Fiore’s position as an elected official and her responsibility to serve the public interest.

Political Career and Controversies

Fiore’s political career has been marked by controversy and polarizing positions. She served in the Nevada state Legislature from 2012 to 2016 and was a Las Vegas city councilwoman from 2017 to 2022. Known for her outspoken support of the Bundy ranching family and gun rights, Fiore has often courted controversy with her statements and actions.

Her political career also included allegations of creating a hostile workplace and numerous tax liens. Despite these issues, Fiore narrowly lost a bid for Nevada state treasurer in 2022 and was later appointed as a justice of the peace in Nye County. This appointment now hangs in the balance following her conviction, as she is currently suspended without pay from her position.

Legal Proceedings and Future Implications

Fiore previously pleaded not guilty to the charges and was released on her own recognizance without bail pending trial. The FBI Las Vegas Field Office investigated the case, which culminated in Fiore’s indictment by a federal grand jury. Her attorney, Michael Sanft, has announced plans to appeal the conviction, setting the stage for a potentially protracted legal battle.

The conviction of Michele Fiore serves as a stark reminder of the importance of accountability in public office. As she awaits sentencing on January 6, the case continues to reverberate through Nevada’s political landscape, raising questions about oversight and the use of charitable funds. For now, Fiore remains free, but the specter of a potential prison sentence looms large over her future. Each of the charges she faces comes with the possibility of 20 years behind bars.

Sources

  1. Fiore convicted of fraud after using money for fallen officer’s memorial for own gain
  2. Former Las Vegas City Councilwoman Charged for Charity Fraud Scheme
  3. Nevada politician guilty of using $70,000 meant for statue of slain officer for personal costs