Michele Fiore Convicted of Wire Fraud, Sentencing Set for May 14

Former Las Vegas City Councilwoman and Nye County Justice of the Peace Michele Fiore has been convicted on six counts of wire fraud and one count of conspiracy to commit wire fraud after misusing more than $70,000 in donations intended for a memorial statue for fallen police officer Alyn Beck. Instead of funding the statue, Fiore spent the money on personal expenses such as rent, cosmetic procedures, and her daughter's wedding. Federal Judge Jennifer Dorsey denied Fiore's motions for acquittal and a new trial, stating there was sufficient evidence of a deliberate scheme to defraud donors. The trial revealed that none of the donated funds were used for the memorial, which was ultimately paid for by a development company, and that high-profile donors, including Nevada's governor and union leaders, testified in court. Fiore faces up to 140 years in prison, with sentencing scheduled for May 14. The judge also dismissed Fiore’s claims of inadequate legal representation and other alleged trial improprieties, concluding these did not warrant a new trial.