SANTA CRUZ COUNTY, Ariz. — A former treasurer of Santa Cruz County has been sentenced to 10 years in federal prison after embezzling nearly $39 million in public funds over a 10-year period.
Elizabeth Gutfahr, 63, was sentenced Monday for orchestrating one of the largest public embezzlement cases in Arizona history. According to federal prosecutors, she used her position to wire funds to accounts belonging to fake companies she created, bypassing internal safeguards.
She carried out nearly 190 fraudulent wire transfers by misusing a security token from a subordinate, allowing her to both initiate and approve transactions—circumventing the county’s required two-step process.
Gutfahr spent the stolen money on personal luxuries, including real estate, over 20 vehicles, renovations to her family ranch, and expenses related to her cattle business. To hide the theft, she manipulated accounting records, reconciliation statements, and investment reports.
Widespread consequences for Santa Cruz County
Officials say the impact of the theft was devastating. The loss of funds disrupted services for local schools, fire districts, and other public programs.
Only around $5 million of the stolen $38.7 million has been recovered so far. County officials estimate an additional $10–12 million may be retrieved through asset forfeiture proceedings.
The Santa Cruz County Board of Supervisors expressed disappointment that Gutfahr didn’t receive a longer sentence, but emphasized their commitment to restoring public trust and recovering what was lost.
They said the focus now is on repairing the damage done to the community and ensuring accountability moving forward.
