News Summary
Michele Fiore has formally appealed her suspension as Pahrump Justice of the Peace, a decision upheld by the Nevada Judicial Discipline Commission. Her suspension, linked to federal wire fraud charges involving misappropriated charitable funds, reinstated her salary but continued her suspension. Following a presidential pardon wiping her criminal record, Fiore’s attorney contends the commission overlooked positive feedback and unverified allegations against her. The appeal raises significant questions about accountability and judicial ethics as the Nevada Supreme Court awaits further developments.
Fiore faced serious allegations leading to her indictment on federal wire fraud charges in July 2024. Her conviction stemmed from fraudulent activities involving the diversion of over $70,000 in charitable donations that were intended for a memorial statue honoring a slain police officer. The scandal marred her judicial career, resulting in her suspension with pay shortly after the indictment.
The Nevada Judicial Discipline Commission’s decision to continue Fiore’s suspension, despite restoring her salary, was influenced by additional complaints against her that arose during her time in office. The commission produced an eight-page decision unanimously stating that her actions had significantly harmed public trust in the judicial system. Notably, while the commission acknowledged the president’s pardon that cleared her criminal record, the scope of the complaints they examined was extensive.
Following her October 2024 conviction, the commission revoked Fiore’s $90,000 annual judicial salary, leading to her current financial situation during the appeal process. On April 23, 2025, her federal conviction was wiped clean thanks to a full pardon granted by President Donald Trump, reopening the doors for her potential reinstatement to the bench.
During a May 2 hearing, Fiore’s attorney, Paola Armeni, advocated for her reinstatement, suggesting the commission overlooked positive public feedback and the implications of the presidential pardon in deliberations. Armeni pointed out that the concerns surrounding Fiore appeared to be based on unverified public perceptions and allegations that predate her tenure as a judge.
The commission reported that public feedback after the pardon was minimal, consisting of only seven emails expressing general concerns about Fiore’s role as a judge. Furthermore, the commission indicated that its decision to maintain her suspension stemmed from worries about Fiore’s capacity to deliver justice ethically and the integrity of the judicial system as a whole.
Fiore, who previously served as a Nevada assemblywoman and an elected member of the Las Vegas City Council, was appointed to the judgeship in Nye County in 2022 immediately following an unsuccessful campaign for state treasurer. She remains determined to return to the judicial bench, expressing confidence that she can rectify the public’s perception and prove her suitability for the position.
In addition to the appeal at the Nevada Supreme Court, the Nevada Commission on Judicial Discipline is currently addressing a number of pending complaints regarding Fiore’s conduct. However, the specific grounds for the appeal have not been disclosed by her attorney.
As this case unfolds, it raises substantial questions about accountability, judicial ethics, and the future of Michele Fiore’s judicial career—amidst the backdrop of federal fraud charges and complex public sentiment surrounding her actions. While awaiting further developments from the Nevada Supreme Court, the outcome of Fiore’s appeal remains uncertain.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Additional Resources
- KTNV News
- Review Journal
- CBS News
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Michele Fiore
- Google Search: Michele Fiore appeal
Author: STAFF HERE LAS VEGAS WRITER
LAS VEGAS STAFF WRITER The LAS VEGAS STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HERELasVegas.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Las Vegas, Clark County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as Electric Daisy Carnival, World Series of Poker, and Consumer Electronics Show. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Las Vegas Chamber of Commerce and Three Square Food Bank, plus leading businesses in hospitality and entertainment that power the local economy such as MGM Resorts International, Caesars Entertainment, and Las Vegas Sands. As part of the broader HERE network, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Nevada's dynamic landscape.
