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The former treasurer of the Vernon Center Volunteer Fire Department, Jonell Rose, has been sentenced to serve up to four years in prison for embezzling over $300,000 from the department. Rose, 51, pleaded guilty to second-degree grand larceny in August, admitting to stealing $309,000 over a six-year period by depositing checks intended for the department into his personal accounts. The stolen funds were used for cryptocurrency purchases, personal credit card payments, and cash withdrawals, according to a forensic examination.
Vernon Center Fire Department Chief Anthony Doty expressed disappointment with the sentence, which he felt was too lenient. Doty emphasized the breach of trust, stating, "For 17 years, you were at this fire department, and I have personally watched you grow into a person that we all could look up to for guidance, motivation, or help in any way. That’s gone now." The funds were meant for a future down payment on a new fire truck, and the department now faces challenges in replacing its aging equipment.
Judge Michael Nolan sentenced Rose to an indeterminate sentence of one to three years in state prison and ordered him to pay restitution. Despite the sentence, Chief Doty remains skeptical about recovering the stolen funds and has implemented stricter oversight of department finances to prevent future incidents. The department continues to operate and will host a fundraising spaghetti dinner on November 9 to help recover financially.