As Santa Cruz County’s election treasurer for more than a decade, Elizabeth Gutfahr’s job was to protect public funds in one of the state’s smallest counties.

But while the money was supposed to go to libraries, fire districts and schools, Gutfahr ended up buying about 20 cars, including Cadillacs and Mercedes, to buy real estate and renovate his family’s ranch. The Justice Department said it siphoned off $38 million for the purpose. this week.

Gutfahr, 62, who held the position from 2013 to early 2024, pleaded guilty Thursday in U.S. District Court in Tucson to one felony count each of embezzlement by a public official, money laundering and tax evasion. She could face up to 35 years in prison when sentenced in February.

“We expect public servants to serve as stewards of the government, not as plunderers,” Nicole M. Argentieri, head of the Justice Department’s criminal division, said in a statement.

Gutfahr’s attorney, Joshua Hamilton, said in a statement that Gutefahr “wants to be held accountable for the harm he has caused Santa Cruz County.”

“She knows that by pleading guilty and accepting the punishment that will result, she is taking a step in the right direction of taking responsibility for her actions,” Hamilton said. “Today was a big step, but just one step along the path to salvation. She will work to continue on that path for the rest of her life.”