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 / Modified oct 3, 2024 12:18 p.m.

Pima County recommends checks and balances to prevent embezzlement following Santa Cruz scandal

County finance director urges enhanced audit procedures and transparency after the case in Santa Cruz County involving nearly $40 million in unauthorized wire transfers by the former treasurer.
by Danyelle Khmara

Money twenty cash economy $20 bills, USD.
AZPM

The Pima County Finance Director Ellen Moulton recommended periodic audits of the treasurer’s office beyond the current annual audits, as well as making statements from financial institutions directly available to the state auditor general.

The financial department also recommended the county treasurer provide regular updates to the Board of Supervisors on financial activities and audit findings.

Since April, officials have launched ongoing investigations into former Santa Cruz County treasurer Elizabeth Gutfahr, who is suspected of embezzling nearly $40 million in public funds over the last decade. While the county has sued Gutfahr, so far there have been no criminal charges.

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