Jonnell Rose, former treasurer of the Vernon Center Fire Department, has been arrested for allegedly embezzling over $300,000 between 2018 and 2024.
According to State Comptroller Thomas P. DiNapoli and New York State Police, Rose is charged with grand larceny after reportedly using fire department funds for personal expenses, including cryptocurrency and credit card payments.
Investigators found that Rose diverted checks intended for department vendors into his own accounts.
Officials emphasized their zero-tolerance stance on abuse of public trust, commending the collaborative investigation that led to Rose’s arrest. He was arraigned in Vernon Town Court.
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