Chicago's Field Museum officials say an employee allegedly stole about $900,000 in cash over seven years and is being investigated by federal authorities.
The accusations were disclosed in a federally mandated December tax report. The museum receives federal grant money.
Museum Chief Marketing Officer Ray DeThorne said the employee was fired when the alleged scheme was discovered in 2014. Officials say they kept it under wraps because the FBI and U.S. attorney's office are investigating.
No charges have been filed. Federal authorities declined comment.
The employee allegedly stole through a membership card scheme, taking cash and making temporary cards without entering the information into the system.
DeThorne says it's embarrassing, but the museum has added security measures, including new security cameras. DeThorne says losses were recovered through an insurance program.