The University of Arizona Police Department is currently investigating the alleged misappropriation of funds from the UA Food Products and Safety Laboratory.

John Marchello, manager of the student-run meat store and the professor and coach of the UA Rodeo Club, is allegedly responsible for the shifting of money totaling around $130,000 over the past three years.

The UA Food Products and Safety Laboratory was contacted and referred to the online information page when asked to provide contact information for Marchello. Staff would not comment about the allegation or investigation that is taking place.

Marchello was reached by email. He responded, “Sorry, I have been advised to say, ‘No comment.’”

Chris Sigurdson, senior communications adviser of the UA, said UAPD is conducting the investigation. He said the university is aware of the investigation and improper money handling at the food product and safety lab, but specific information has not been released to the public.

“As far as I know, [UAPD] hasn’t mentioned any names or any details,” Sigurdson said.
Filbert Barrera, UAPD public information officer, said it will be a while until any information is released regarding the investigation.

“The only thing I can tell you is that we are in an investigation for improper money handling that was reported to us, and we can’t talk about it until we are done,” Barrera said.   

The laboratory has student-run meat sales every Friday, from 3-6 p.m. These sales will continue unaffected by the investigation.

_______________

Follow Brandi Walker on Twitter.