Jonnell Rose, the former Treasurer of the Vernon Center Fire Department, has been sentenced to one to three years in state prison and ordered to pay full restitution after stealing more than $300,000 from the department. The sentencing was announced by State Comptroller Thomas P. DiNapoli, Oneida County District Attorney Todd Carville, and New York State Police Superintendent Steven G. James.
Rose pleaded guilty in August to grand larceny in the second degree. According to investigators, Rose wrote checks to himself from the fire department’s account and deposited checks meant for vendors into his personal account over a six-year period between May 2018 and May 2024. The total amount stolen was $309,000.
“Instead of serving his department, Jonnell Rose chose to serve himself by stealing over $300,000 in money meant to protect his community,” said DiNapoli. “This crime was a serious betrayal of the public’s trust and I thank District Attorney Carville and the New York State Police for their partnership in holding him accountable.”
District Attorney Carville commented on the breach of trust: “The defendant was placed in a position of trust, and he violated that trust. In doing so, he not only victimized the fine, selfless men and women volunteers of the Vernon Center Fire Department, but the entire community they serve. 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.”
Superintendent James emphasized public service values: “Public service is built on integrity and trust, and when that trust is violated, it undermines the safety and confidence of an entire community. The New York State Police will continue to work with our partners to uncover and investigate financial crimes like this one, ensuring those who abuse their positions of responsibility are held accountable.”
Judge Michael R. Nolan imposed Rose’s sentence at Oneida County Court.
Since taking office in 2007, DiNapoli has focused on combating public corruption across New York State. He encourages residents with information about fraud involving taxpayer funds to report allegations through several channels including a toll-free hotline or email.
