(Photo courtesy of University of Arizona)

A tenured University of Arizona professor has pleaded guilty to taking thousands of dollars from the university.

John Marchello pleaded guilty to felony theft and could face up to four years’ probation or prison time.

According to a statement from the university, the Pima County Attorney’s Office has initiated a civil forfeiture case against Marchello for the $223,000 they say he diverted from the school. The U of A has also filed a claim in that case in hopes of recovering the funds in addition to any criminal restitution.

Marchello was a professor of animal sciences when he resigned in April. He is scheduled to be sentenced in November. 

The Associated Press contributed to this report.