Detectives Arrest City of St. Pete Beach Employee for Scheme to Defraud (25-108)

ST. PETE BEACH – Detectives assigned to the Economic Crimes Unit (ECU) have arrested a City of St. Pete Beach employee for Scheme to Defraud.

On August 28, 2025, detectives began an investigation after a report of a theft by an employee of the City of St. Pete Beach. Detectives learned the employee, later identified as 50-year-old Leonard Hardy Rose, used a city gas card multiple times to make unauthorized fuel purchases between February of 2024 and August of 2025.

Detectives say Rose was seen on surveillance video at local gas stations fueling vehicles that did not belong to the City of St. Pete Beach. Rose used a gas card provided by the city as payment.  At this point in the investigation, detectives have confirmed that Rose used the gas card numerous times, totaling over $3,000.00.

On September 4, 2025, Rose was arrested and charged with Scheme to Defraud.

He was transported to the Pinellas County Jail.

The investigation continues.

Additional Information:
Leonard Hardy Rose (Suspect – Arrested)
DOB: 08/24/1975
Address: 4455 11th Avenue South, St. Petersburg
Charge: Scheme to Defraud

Rose's booking photo was not available at the time of this release.