Richard Rose Sentenced

Conspiracy to commit mail fraud has landed 65-year-old Richard Rose, a Missouri City man, in federal prison. Rose pleaded guilty to the charges on August 17 and was sentenced to 36 months in prison.

Acting U.S. Attorney Jennifer B. Lowery announced the sentencing, which was imposed by Chief U.S. District Judge Lee H. Rosenthal. In addition to the prison term, Rose was ordered to pay restitution of $335,439.

Rose was the founder of Zoe Learning Academy and served in various capacities, including superintendent, CEO, and chief financial officer, during its operation from 2001 until it closed in September 2019. At the time of his plea, he admitted to filing falsified governance reports through the U.S. mail to obtain charter school funds.

The investigation revealed that Rose embezzled funds intended for the charter school’s operation and used them for his personal expenses, including legal fees, a lawsuit settlement, and the purchase of a timeshare. The scope of the embezzlement was significant, totaling $335,439, which Rose has been ordered to repay as restitution.

The case was investigated by the IRS-Criminal Investigation, Secret Service, Department of Education-Office of Inspector General, and the FBI. Assistant U.S. Attorney Belinda Beek and Quincy Ollison prosecuted the case, securing a guilty plea and a significant prison sentence for Rose.

Rose was permitted to remain on bond and will voluntarily surrender to a Bureau of Prisons facility to be determined in the near future. The sentencing brings an end to the case, but the impact of Rose’s actions will likely be felt for some time. The embezzlement of funds intended for the charter school’s operation has significant consequences, and the community will be looking for assurances that measures are in place to prevent similar incidents in the future.

In a statement, Acting U.S. Attorney Jennifer B. Lowery highlighted the importance of holding individuals accountable for their actions. The sentencing of Richard Rose serves as a reminder that those who engage in fraudulent activities will be pursued and prosecuted to the fullest extent of the law. As the community moves forward, it is essential that measures are put in place to prevent similar incidents of mail fraud and embezzlement from occurring in the future.

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