Former Treasurer Sentenced for Stealing Over $38 Million

Rio Rico, Arizona – Elizabeth Gutfar, the former Santa Cruz County treasurer, has been sentenced to ten years in federal prison after admitting to stealing more than $38 million in taxpayer funds. This money, part of which was supposed to benefit the Rio Rico Fire District, was misappropriated for personal luxuries like expensive houses and cars.

Some members of the community are feeling the impact of this theft. The Rio Rico Fire District, which relies on taxes collected by Santa Cruz County, estimates that it could have lost as much as $1.6 million over the last decade due to Gutfar’s actions.

Fire Chief Adam Amezaga expressed that while residents can still count on the fire district for their protection, the loss of funds has made operations more difficult. “We have an aging fleet,” he noted, mentioning the need for an extra brush truck for wildland fires. Projects vital for community safety are clearly at risk.

Brad Beach, who serves on the governing committee for the fire district and also works with the local school board, mentioned the broad impact of Gutfar’s theft. “We know we’ve lost about $1.6 million,” he said, highlighting that the effects are felt across multiple community services.

Despite these challenges, firefighters are adapting to ensure safety continues. The Rio Rico Fire District is moving forward while awaiting news on how much Gutfar will be able to repay in light of her significant theft.