Additional Coverage:
Former Nevada Official Convicted of Misusing Memorial Funds
Michele Fiore, a former Las Vegas councilwoman, has been found guilty of misappropriating over $70,000 raised for a memorial to a slain police officer. The funds were reportedly spent on personal expenses, including rent, plastic surgery, and a wedding.
Prosecutors alleged that Fiore abused her position to drain charity and political action committee accounts meant for the statue. Bank records show that the money was transferred to her personal accounts, withdrawn as cash, and used to purchase cashier’s checks.
An FBI investigation revealed that Fiore also used the funds for lavish expenses such as trips to the Caribbean and California, as well as a Church of Scientology retreat. Invoice documents indicate that some of the money was spent on plastic surgery.
The jury’s verdict came swiftly after a few hours of deliberation. Fiore’s attorney intends to appeal the decision. She faces a maximum sentence of 20 years for each count of wire fraud and conspiracy.