Arizona county treasurer pleads guilty to embezzling more than $38 million for personal expenses

Elizabeth Gutfahr, former treasurer of Santa Cruz County, Arizona, pleaded guilty to embezzling over $38 million in county funds between 2012 and 2024.

She used the money for personal expenses, including ranch renovations, at least 20 cars, and family costs.

Gutfahr transferred funds to personal accounts and used fake business accounts to conceal the theft.

She faces up to 35 years in prison and must pay restitution to the county and federal taxes totaling over $13 million, CNN has reported.

Sentencing is set for February 6, 2025.

Written by B.C. Begley