The Nevada Commission on Judicial Discipline is considering the continued suspension of Michele Fiore from her position as a Pahrump judge, despite her receiving a presidential pardon from Donald Trump. Fiore was found guilty of conspiracy and wire fraud, with federal prosecutors proving she misused funds intended for a memorial to a fallen officer for personal expenses.
Fiore, who was a Las Vegas councilwoman during the fundraising campaign, was indicted while serving as a justice of the peace in Pahrump. Following her indictment and subsequent guilty verdict, the judicial discipline commission suspended her, initially with pay and later without.
Despite Fiore’s expectation that her pardon would allow her to return to her judicial duties, her suspension remains. The commission has filed a notice indicating it might consider suspending her with pay even if the initial reasons for her suspension are deemed invalid post-pardon. They will assess whether she poses a threat to the public or the justice system due to her criminal case, with a hearing scheduled for Friday.
Fiore’s attorney, Paola Armeni, expressed surprise and concern over the commission’s actions, questioning the grounds for a new suspension. Armeni noted that the original suspension was linked to Fiore’s past actions as a councilwoman, not her conduct as a judge.
The judicial discipline commission declined to comment on the matter. Fiore, expressing confusion over the potential new suspension, emphasized her commitment to respecting court rules and processes. Meanwhile, the Nye County commission plans to discuss appointing a substitute justice of the peace to temporarily fill Fiore’s position. Michael Foley has been serving in this capacity in 30-day increments since January.