Statement from Rep. Matt Gress:

“The conduct detailed in the Arizona Auditor General's report is deeply disturbing and a serious breach of the public trust. This case represents one of the worst examples of county financial misconduct in Arizona history and highlights the need for greater oversight and accountability in the stewardship of public resources.”

“It is particularly concerning that, despite the County's authorization, one of the County's financial institutions may not have fully cooperated with the Auditor General's investigation. Its refusal to provide additional information only heightens the seriousness of the situation and underscores the need for greater transparency.”

“Next session, I will introduce legislation to expand the authority of the Arizona Comptroller and give him or her direct access to financial institutions' records, so that the Comptroller has more of the tools he or she needs to detect and address financial misconduct, even when internal controls fail. Additionally, I am considering introducing legislation to require newly elected or appointed county treasurers and their deputies to meet certain training requirements to ensure they are equipped to responsibly manage public funds.”

“I commend the Auditor General's Office and law enforcement for their diligence in bringing these issues to light. Moving forward, it is imperative that the County implements the nine recommendations made by the Arizona Auditor General and establishes stronger safeguards to prevent such misconduct and ensure public officials are held to the highest standards of integrity. It is our duty to provide the Arizona Auditor General with additional tools to uncover financial wrongdoing and protect Arizonans' hard-earned tax dollars from fraud and corruption.”