Regina Hill, an Orlando City Commissioner, has been arrested. Her arrest comes after being indicted by a grand jury on charges related to fraud and elder exploitation.
News of the arrested came from the Florida Department of Law Enforcement early this morning.
Commissioner Hill’s relationship with a 96-year-old constituent is at the center of the investigation. It was detailed in an injunction against her that was handed down by an Orange County judge last week.
In the indictment, Commissioner Hill faces three charges of elder exploitation, stemming from an accusation of abusing her power of attorney over a constituent. Furthermore, the commissioner is charged with two counts of identity fraud and single counts of mortgage fraud as well as scheming to defraud of at least $50,000.
The 96-year-old constituent and a family friend who pursued the injunction on her behalf argue that Commissioner Hill met with the woman in 2021. From this meeting, she gained a power of attorney over her, and subsequently the commissioner is alleged to have drained the woman’s bank accounts for expenses adding up to $100,000. These expenses include expensive perfumes, home renovations, clothing, a facelift, and a Miami hotel room.
When questioned about Commissioner Hill’s future in office, Cassandra Bell, a spokesperson for Orlando Mayor Buddy Dyer, commented that “we do not have any authority to discipline an elected official, including suspending them from office, as that power lies with the Governor. As additional background, if the Governor suspends Hill from Office, pursuant to the city’s charter, we will work with the Supervisor of Elections to hold a special election to temporarily fill the district 5 city commission seat.”
Florida Governor Ron DeSantis (R) has not commented on the arrest.
Commissioner Hill was first elected in 2013, and she represents downtown Orlando and neighborhoods that are west of Interstate 4. She was booked into jail on seven charges, and she is currently being held on $40,000 bond.
