Trump Pardons ‘Lady Trump’ After Charity Fund Scandal Rocks Nevada Politics

In a move that has sparked widespread controversy, former President Donald Trump has granted a full and unconditional pardon to Michele Fiore, a former Las Vegas city councilwoman and Nevada state lawmaker, who was convicted of federal wire fraud charges for misusing over $70,000 raised for a police memorial statue.​

Fiore, known for her staunch conservative views and nicknamed “Lady Trump,” was found guilty in October 2024 of six counts of wire fraud and one count of conspiracy to commit wire fraud. Prosecutors revealed that the funds, intended to honour slain officer Alyn Beck, were instead spent on personal expenses, including plastic surgery, rent, and her daughter’s wedding.​

The pardon was issued shortly after a judge denied Fiore’s request for a new trial and scheduled her sentencing for May 14, 2025. Her legal team submitted the pardon certificate to vacate the upcoming sentencing.​

Fiore expressed gratitude for the pardon, stating that it restored her life, reputation, and mission, which she claimed had been unfairly targeted.

The decision has drawn sharp criticism from various quarters. Nevada Attorney General Aaron Ford condemned the pardon, calling it a disgrace to law enforcement. Democratic U.S. Senator Catherine Cortez Masto echoed this sentiment, stating that the pardon was a slap in the face to law enforcement officers.​

Fiore’s political career has been marked by controversy. She previously served in the Nevada state legislature from 2012 to 2016 and on the Las Vegas City Council from 2017 to 2022. In 2022, she ran unsuccessfully for state treasurer after withdrawing from the governor’s race.

Following her conviction, Fiore was suspended from her position as a justice of the peace in Nye County. Despite the suspension, she announced plans to return to the bench, though her status remains under review.​

This pardon is among a series of controversial clemency decisions made by Trump during his second term, including pardons for individuals involved in the January 6 Capitol riot and associates of Hunter Biden.

The case continues to raise questions about the use of presidential pardon powers and the implications for accountability and justice.