ST. PETERSBURG, Fla. — A St. Pete Beach city employee is facing criminal charges after allegedly using a city-issued gas card to make unauthorized fuel purchases totaling over $3,000, according to the Pinellas County Sheriff’s Office.
Ongoing Investigation
On August 28, 2025, the City of St. Pete Beach reported a suspected employee theft to the Sheriff’s Office Economic Crimes Unit. Detectives launched an investigation into irregular fuel charges linked to 50-year-old Leonard Hardy Rose, a municipal employee.
Authorities allege that Rose used the city’s fuel card to fill up vehicles not owned by the city between February 2024 and August 2025.
Surveillance Footage Confirms Misuse
Detectives reviewed surveillance footage from multiple gas stations, which allegedly captured Rose using the city’s fuel card to fuel privately owned vehicles. Investigators confirmed numerous unauthorized transactions matching Rose’s activity.
Arrest and Charges
On September 4, 2025, Rose was arrested and charged with scheme to defraud. He was booked into the Pinellas County Jail. Authorities say the investigation remains ongoing, and additional charges are possible.
