Former county treasurer Elizabeth Gutfahr pleaded guilty to embezzlement, money laundering and tax evasion charges after stealing more than $38 million in county funds from 2012 to 2024. Gutfahr, who served as election treasurer for Santa Cruz County, Arizona, admitted to transferring funds from a county account to a personal bank account for personal use from 2014 to April 2024.

Ms. Gutfahr confessed to wire transfers of Santa Cruz County funds to her personal accounts at Wells Fargo and Bank of Montreal without permission, totaling $38,712,100. She also admitted that these acts were intended to embezzle county funds and used fake business accounts to hide the transfers.

Her attorney said Gutfahr is responsible for the damage caused to Santa Cruz County and intends to take responsibility for her actions. Mr. Gutfahr’s guilty plea reflects the Department of Justice’s dedication to combating public corruption and holding officials accountable for their actions.

Gutfahr was released on bail and surrendered his passport, but is scheduled to be sentenced on February 6, 2025. Gutfahr could face up to 35 years in prison and must pay $13,143,526 in restitution to Santa Cruz County, as well as $38 million in restitution. Federal taxes from 2014 to 2023.