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 November 19, 2024 / Modified nov 20, 2024 11:57 a.m.

Pima County acts to prevent financial mismanagement following scandal involving former Santa Cruz County treasurer

The county is implementing safeguards to protect against financial issues, such as the $40 million embezzlement case against Elizabeth Gutfahr.
by Danyelle Khmara

Money twenty cash economy $20 bills, USD.
AZPM

In a memo to the Board of Supervisors, County Administrator Jan Lesher says the board will now routinely receive updates from the treasurer on financial activities and audit findings. As well, the county will conduct more frequent audits of the treasurer’s systems and make it so financial statements can go directly to the Auditor General.

The extra controls come after investigations in Santa Cruz County found 182 unauthorized transfers over 10 years to accounts associated with the Santa Cruz County Treasurer.

Since April, officials have launched ongoing investigations into former Santa Cruz County treasurer Elizabeth Gutfahr, who is suspected of embezzling public funds. While the county has sued Gutfahr, so far, there have been no criminal charges.

MORE: Arizona Government, Pima County, News
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