Museum Accuses Former Official of Embezzlement

Officials at the Bellevue Arts Museum, in Washington State, have accused the museum’s chief financial officer of embezzling about $200,000 over two years, reports The Seattle Times.

The museum says it has not filed a criminal complaint against the unidentified woman, and hopes it will be able to work out a restitution plan. The incident comes four years after the museum was forced to close because of poor accounting, leadership problems, and weak attendance. It reopened in 2005, and has gained new support from donors and $2-million from the city.

The museum will have to re-evaluate its accounting system, financial policies, and board oversight, says Bellevue Mayor Grant Degginger.

Museum officials say they know some donors may be worried, but that several have promised donations, including one seven-figure pledge.