Woman accused of stealing $2 million from company

A former executive of an Illinois chemical company is accused of stealing more than $2 million from the company for personal use.

Kathleen Barth of Chicago is charged with theft of property exceeding $1 million. Cook County Circuit Judge Laura Sullivan on Thursday set bond for the 56-year-old Barth at $200,000.

Prosecutors say Barth was general manager of Kraft Chemical Corp. of Melrose Park from April 2005 through 2012. They contend that between May 2006 and April 2012, Barth allegedly stole $2.1 million by fraudulently increasing her salary and giving herself unauthorized bonuses and commission checks.

Barth is also accused of electronically transferring corporate funds into her personal checking account.

The next court appearance for Barth is scheduled for May 16. It isn’t immediately known if she has legal representation.