An investigation is underway into Orlando City Commissioner Regina Hill for purportedly embezzling more than $100,000 from a 96-year-old woman.
The funds were allegedly used by Hill for cosmetic enhancements, dental procedures, accommodations in hotels, and other expenses.
As per an affidavit from an agent of the Florida Department of Law Enforcement obtained by USA Today, the financial exploitation of the elderly woman by Hill is said to have commenced on March 15, 2021.
USA Today reports:
The special agent’s investigation suggests Hill had no prior relationship with the elderly woman before meeting her in March 2021 and obtaining power of attorney over her a little over a month later, according to the court records obtained by USA TODAY on Wednesday.
In an email to USA TODAY on Wednesday, the Florida Department of Law Enforcement confirmed that an active investigation is ongoing against Hill, but the agency could not provide additional information. It remains unclear if Hill is facing any criminal charges.
The investigation was initiated after Hill’s former aide reported that her name was included on official documents that the commissioner used to acquire a new home.
Additionally, the 96-year-old woman’s name appeared as a co-buyer on the same documents.
“After speaking to the 96-year-old woman, the agent learned that she never permitted Hill to use her personal information to buy the home, court documents show,” the report explains. “As of March 7, the day the affidavit was filed, the home was abandoned and without electricity or running water, the documents continued.”
According to court records, Hill allegedly utilized the woman’s funds to acquire a facelift, luxury perfumes, clothing, various intravenous vitamin treatments, car insurance fees, dental procedures, and a hotel reservation in Miami for New Year’s Eve.
The victim informed authorities that she did not authorize Hill to act as her power of attorney or access her bank accounts.
She says she recalled signing a document but admitted confusion regarding its contents.
This type of exploitation not only demonstrates a complete lack of morals and ethics but also a blatant abuse of power.
It is deeply concerning that someone in a position of authority and trust would stoop so low as to take advantage of an elderly individual for personal gain.
This case highlights the importance of holding public officials accountable for their actions and ensuring that measures are in place to prevent such egregious acts from occurring again in the future.
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