The Florida Department of Law Enforcement announced on Thursday that Orlando Commissioner Regina Hill has been arrested for allegedly exploiting a 96-year-old woman in her district.
Hill was arrested on seven charges, including exploitation of an elderly victim (three counts), scheme to defraud (one count), fraudulent use of personal identification information (two counts), and mortgage fraud greater than $100,000 (one count).
On Thursday afternoon, the Florida Department of Law Enforcement held a press conference regarding Hill’s arrest. FDLE Orlando Special Agent in Charge John Vecchio took the podium and stated that Hill “took advantage of one of the community’s most vulnerable citizens, and one of her constituents, by obtaining and later using the victim’s personal information and financial funds for her own benefit.”
According to Agent Vecchio, the Florida Attorney General’s Office contacted FDLE in February of 2023 regarding a criminal complaint against Hill. The complaint alleged that Hill was taking advantage of an elderly woman who lived alone in a home that was in disrepair.
A thorough investigation was launched, and FDLE agents discovered that Hill had allegedly used her influence over the victim to fraudulently obtain a power of attorney. She then proceeded to use the victim’s personal information to purchase a home in the victim’s name, according to FDLE.
Hill has been accused of using the victim’s finances to make multiple purchases that included rental cars, hotel stays, personal luxury items such as expensive bottles of perfume from high-end retailers, and clothing. In addition, Hill allegedly used the victim’s money to pay for her own personal bills.
FDLE stated that Hill moved into a vacant home that the victim had inherited from a relative. While at that residence, Hill allegedly used the victim’s finances to pay for renovations while the victim’s primary home remained in disrepair.
Special Agent Vecchio stated during the press conference that Hill’s alleged crimes cost the victim “more than $100,000.”
Vecchio added that the “complex” investigation has involved countless hours of interviews and document analysis, among other investigative methods.
FDLE stated that while Hill is a city commissioner, the charges stemming from her arrest are solely due to her alleged actions as a member of the community.
The investigation into this case remains ongoing, according to FDLE.