Jonnell Rose, former treasurer of the Vernon Center Fire Department, has pleaded guilty to grand larceny in the second degree after stealing more than $300,000 from the department over a six-year period.
The plea was announced today by State Comptroller Thomas P. DiNapoli, Oneida County District Attorney Todd Carville, and New York State Police Superintendent Steven G. James.
A joint investigation by the State Comptroller’s Office and New York State Police revealed that Rose, 52, of Vernon, embezzled $309,000 between May 2018 and May 2024. Investigators say Rose wrote department checks to himself, diverted payments intended for vendors, and deposited donations meant for the department into his personal accounts.
A forensic audit found Rose used the stolen funds for personal expenses, including cryptocurrency transactions, credit card payments, and cash withdrawals.
“Jonnell Rose betrayed his community’s trust and stole over $300,000 meant to protect it,” said Comptroller DiNapoli. “I thank District Attorney Carville and the New York State Police for their partnership in holding him accountable.”
District Attorney Carville added, “This crime is particularly disturbing because the victims were the community and the dedicated volunteer firefighters who serve it.”
Superintendent James said the case highlights the importance of collaboration between law enforcement agencies to hold individuals accountable for violating public trust.
Rose entered his guilty plea before Judge Michael Nolan in Oneida County Court. He is scheduled to be sentenced on October 28, 2025.
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