Jonnell Rose, the former Treasurer of the Vernon Center Fire Department, has pleaded guilty to stealing more than $300,000 from the department. The announcement was made by State Comptroller Thomas P. DiNapoli, Oneida County District Attorney Todd Carville, and New York State Police Superintendent Steven G. James. Rose admitted guilt to grand larceny in the second degree.
“Jonnell Rose betrayed his community’s trust and stole over $300,000 meant to protect it,” said DiNapoli. “I thank District Attorney Carville and the New York State Police for their partnership in holding him accountable.”
Carville stated, “This crime is particularly disturbing because of the victims that were targeted, the community and the fine men and women who selflessly give their time and talent as volunteer firefighters. I would like to thank the New York State Police and the New York State Comptroller’s Office for their hard work as well as the efforts of my Assistant, ADA Paul Kelly, who ensured that the defendant was held responsible and prosecuted to the fullest extent of the law.”
James added, “This guilty plea demonstrates the vital collaborative work of our law enforcement partners focused on the same goal; holding those who break our laws, accountable. Mr. Rose took advantage of a position he was entrusted in, and stole funds intended to support the Vernon Center Fire Department and the community it serves. I thank our State Police members, the Comptroller’s Office, and Oneida County District Attorney’s Office for their commitment to investigating and prosecuting those who victimize others.”
A joint investigation conducted by DiNapoli’s office and state police determined that Rose stole $309,000 from May 2018 through May 2024 while serving as treasurer. Investigators found that he wrote checks from fire department accounts payable to cash which he kept for himself. He also deposited checks written out to legitimate vendors into his own accounts or cashed checks intended for department use.
Forensic analysis showed that Rose used stolen funds for personal purchases such as cryptocurrency transactions, credit card payments, and cash withdrawals.
Rose entered his guilty plea before Judge Michael Nolan in Oneida County Court. Sentencing is scheduled for October 28, 2025.
Since assuming office in 2007, DiNapoli has prioritized fighting public corruption. The public is encouraged to report suspected fraud involving taxpayer money via a toll-free hotline at 1-888-672-4555 or by contacting his office directly through email or mail.
