Michele Fiore Accused of Defrauding Fellow Republican in Wire Fraud Scheme
(Jeff Scheid/Nevada Independent)
Failed far-right Nevada politician Michele Fiore is facing serious accusations of defrauding another Republican official as part of a wire fraud scheme, according to court documents released Monday and reported by the Nevada Independent. Fiore, a former Las Vegas city councilwoman and unsuccessful candidate for Nevada State Treasurer in 2022, has been federally indicted for allegedly embezzling funds intended for a political project.
Prosecutors claim that Fiore set up a fund through her political committee to erect statues honoring fallen police officers but instead diverted the money for unrelated political activities, her rent, and even expenses for her daughter’s wedding. Fiore has pleaded not guilty and denies all charges.
The new court documents reveal that two prominent donors defrauded by this scheme include fellow Republican Las Vegas city councilwoman Victoria Seaman and Nevada Governor Joe Lombardo. Additionally, the documents identify Fiore’s daughter as an unindicted co-conspirator in the scheme.
Despite her legal troubles, Fiore continues to hold her position as a justice of the peace on the Pahrump Justice Court in Nye County, although she has been suspended with pay while the case proceeds. Fiore was controversially appointed to the role by county officials in late 2022, despite having no prior judicial experience.
Fiore has long been a divisive figure in Nevada politics. Known for her ties to armed militias, she once made a controversial statement in 2016, suggesting it was acceptable to point a gun at a police officer if they aimed one at you. Fiore has also had contentious relationships with other Republicans, particularly Victoria Seaman. In 2020, Seaman accused Fiore of physically assaulting her and fostering a hostile work environment during the height of the election campaign.
Following her 2022 loss in the State Treasurer race, Fiore further stirred controversy by publicly attacking former state party chairwoman Amy Tarkanian, calling her an “alcoholic bimbo” and a “panty dropper after two shots.” The Nevada GOP was thrown into disarray shortly afterward as a result of the scandal.
As Fiore’s legal battle unfolds, the allegations against her continue to cast a shadow over her political career and relationships within the Republican Party.
