Michele Fiore suspended as justice of the peace after federal indictment on fraud charges

The Nevada Commission on Judicial Discipline has suspended Nye County Justice of the Peace Michele Fiore as she faces federal charges in an alleged charity scheme.

In a Wednesday order, the commission suspended Fiore, 53, of Pahrump, after she was indicted on federal wire fraud and conspiracy charges earlier this month . The commission is required to suspend with pay judges who are facing felony charges at the state or federal level.

Fiore pleaded not guilty to four counts of wire fraud and one count of conspiracy last week.

Prosecutors say Fiore, while she was a Las Vegas City councilwoman, raised over $70,000 for a statue to honor Las Vegas Metropolitan Police officers who were killed in the line of duty. They say she instead used the money for personal use.

According to the indictment, even though the project had already secured funding from another source, Fiore continued to solicit donations and used them to cover personal expenses, including rent, campaign bills and her daughter's wedding.

Fiore was a vocal supporter of Nevada rancher Cliven Bundy and his family during the 2014 standoff over federal grazing rights. In a Wednesday statement, Fiore noted her past support, which she believes has made her a target by the FBI and federal prosecutors.

"For a decade, I’ve been their target for standing up for what is right," Fiore said. "As I go through this distressing and challenging time, fight again, and bring light to the shadows, I ask only for your prayers and support. You have entrusted me with your votes because I will always stand for our Constitution and our rights as proud citizens under one flag, even at significant personal cost."

Fiore’s trial is set to begin Sept. 24 before Judge Jennifer A. Dorsey in Las Vegas.

Fiore, a Republican, was appointed as Nye County justice of the peace in December 2022 after losing her bid for state treasurer. Her political career in Nevada began after being elected to the Nevada Assembly, where she served two terms from 2012 to 2016. In 2017, she won a seat on the Las Vegas City Council and served until 2022.

This article originally appeared on Reno Gazette Journal: Michele Fiore suspended as justice of the peace after federal indictment on fraud charges