SANTA CRUZ, Ariz. (KYMA, KECY) – A former Santa Cruz, Arizona city councilman has pleaded guilty to embezzlement, money laundering and tax evasion charges. US Department of Justice.
Former Santa Cruz County Treasurer Elizabeth Gutfahr, 62, embezzled and laundered approximately $38 million by writing county funds in the name of companies she formed to obtain funds for herself. Gutfahr would then wire the money to her personal account.
She bought real estate and at least 20 cars, according to court documents.
“Elizabeth Gutfahr stole $38 million from the people of Santa Cruz County, Arizona, during her 12 years as county treasurer,” said Nicole M. Argentieri, Principal Deputy Assistant Attorney General of the Justice Department’s Criminal Division. said. “We expect public servants to serve as stewards of government finances, not to loot them.Today’s plea is for the Department of Justice to root out public corruption at all levels of government. It shows once again that we are continuing to work hard.”
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