‘Lady Trump’ Defiant After Presidential Pardon in Police Memorial Fund Misuse Case

Michele Fiore, a former Las Vegas City Council member and Nevada state legislator known as “Lady Trump” for her staunch support of former President Donald Trump, has publicly denounced the federal case against her as a “fake case” following a full presidential pardon. The pardon, issued by President Trump, absolved Fiore of her conviction for misusing funds raised for a police memorial, which she allegedly diverted for personal expenses including cosmetic procedures and her daughter’s wedding.

Background of the Case

In 2014, Fiore initiated a fundraising campaign to erect a statue honoring Las Vegas Metropolitan Police Officer Alyn Beck, who was killed in the line of duty. Donors were assured that 100% of their contributions would fund the memorial. However, federal prosecutors contended that Fiore redirected over $70,000 of these donations for personal use, including political fundraising, rent, and family expenses.

Despite the statue being completed, evidence presented during the trial indicated that the monument was financed by a development company, not through the funds raised by Fiore. In October 2024, she was convicted of fraud and faced a potential sentence of up to 20 years in prison.

Presidential Pardon and Public Reaction

President Trump granted Fiore a full and unconditional pardon less than a month before her scheduled sentencing. In a statement, Trump criticized the Department of Justice under President Biden as “overzealous” and “corrupt,” suggesting that Fiore was a victim of political persecution.

Fiore expressed profound relief upon receiving the pardon, stating in an interview, “It was a fake case, and the government knew it.” She denied allegations of misusing the funds, asserting that the charges were politically motivated.

The pardon has sparked controversy, with critics arguing that it undermines the judicial process and accountability for public officials. The Las Vegas Review-Journal, owned by Trump mega-donor Miriam Adelson, labeled the pardon a “debasement of presidential pardon power,” emphasizing that there was no evidence of a miscarriage of justice in Fiore’s case.

Current Status and Future Implications

Following the pardon, Fiore remains suspended from her position as a justice court judge in Pahrump, Nevada. She has appealed the suspension to the Nevada Supreme Court, arguing that it violates her constitutional rights and is based on unverified allegations.

Fiore continues to serve as a committee woman responsible for fundraising within the Nevada Republican Party. Her case highlights the ongoing debate over the use of presidential pardons and the balance between political alliances and judicial accountability.