NOGALES, Ariz. (KVOA) – It was supposed to be a confidential executive meeting to give Santa Cruz County Supervisors an update on an audit of funds lost during former Treasurer Elizabeth Gutfer's tenure, but it was accidentally broadcast for all to see on the county's website.
Executive meetings are highly protected, making it illegal for participants to discuss what happens during closed-door meetings.
The more than two-hour-long meeting, which was mistakenly made public on Monday, revealed shocking new information.
The chart, titled “Gutfahr Transactions – Lost Funds,” shows that more than $39 million was stolen between 2013 and 2024. More than $11 million was stolen in 2023 alone.
Supervisors were also told more than $27.9 million of the lost funds came from local schools and more than $11.4 million came from the county's general fund.
News 4 Tucson spoke with board Chairman Manny Ruiz, who said after speaking with the county attorney he couldn't say anything about the situation at this time.
Gutphal has not been criminally charged at this time, but the FBI is investigating the situation and has already executed a search warrant at her Tumacacori home.
News 4 Tucson will provide updates as more information becomes available.
If you have a story you'd like us to investigate, please email investigators@kvoa.com or call 520-955-4444.
