ST. PETE BEACH – Detectives with the Pinellas County Sheriff’s Office Economic Crimes Unit have arrested a City of St. Pete Beach employee in connection with an ongoing theft investigation.
According to investigators, the inquiry began on August 28, 2025, after a report of a possible theft involving a city employee. Detectives identified the suspect as 50-year-old Leonard Hardy Rose of St. Petersburg.
Detectives say Rose used a City of St. Pete Beach-issued gas card to make unauthorized fuel purchases between February 2024 and August 2025. Surveillance video reportedly showed Rose fueling vehicles that were not owned by the city.
The investigation confirmed multiple unauthorized transactions totaling more than $3,000.
On September 4, 2025, Rose was arrested and charged with Scheme to Defraud. He was transported to the Pinellas County Jail.
The City of St. Pete Beach released a statement.
“Pursuant with the City’s Personnel Rules and Regulations, Mr. Rose has been placed on unpaid administrative leave pending an internal investigation and final determination of possible disciplinary action. All inquiries regarding the charges Mr. Rose is facing should be directed to the Pinellas County Sheriff’s Office.It should be noted that the alleged actions of Mr. Rose are not representative of the actions of the men and women of the St. Pete Beach Public Services team, who provide exceptional services to the residents and visitors of our city.”
The investigation remains ongoing.