Florida's Orlando Commissioner Regina Hill, aged 58, is facing severe legal repercussions, accused of committing seven felonies.

She allegedly exploited a 96-year-old woman financially, diverting funds towards personal expenses, including cosmetic surgery, dental procedures, accommodation, and home renovations, USA Today reports.

The Florida Department of Law Enforcement (FDLE) disclosed the charges, encompassing exploitation of the elderly, fraudulent use of personal identification, mortgage fraud, and scheming to defraud over $50,000.

The FDLE commenced investigations after receiving a complaint forwarded by the Office of the Attorney General.

Legal and Political Ramifications Unfold

During a news conference in Miami, Gov. Ron DeSantis expressed his stance on the situation, highlighting that local officials facing felony charges typically undergo suspension, Click Orlando noted.

Gov. Ron DeSantis signed an executive order, resulting in Hill's suspension from her position as City Commissioner.

Mayor Buddy Dyer announced plans for a special election to fill Hill'sHill's vacant seat temporarily.

The alleged victim's identity remains confidential due to ongoing legal guardianship proceedings.

Court documents unearthed by News 6 reveal disturbing findings.

Investigators suspect Hill of orchestrating a power of attorney acquisition over the elderly woman and securing a mortgage for a property without her knowledge.

Hill's son and his girlfriend purportedly reside in the mortgaged property, while Hill occupies another residence that belonged to the elderly woman's family.

Assistant Commissioner Lee Massie condemned Hill's actions, emphasizing the betrayal of community trust and exploitation of a vulnerable citizen.

"Mrs. Hill effectively betrayed the trust of her community by taking advantage of a 96-year-old elderly citizen, which is one of the most vulnerable in that community," During a press briefing, FDLE Assistant Commissioner Lee Massie remarked.

"A victim who was the last of her family in the area was manipulated and lied to, her finances and personal information misused and abused for Hill's personal benefit. Obviously extremely tragic," she added.

Governor's Directive and Election Procedures

Governor Ron DeSantis invoked his authority to suspend Hill following the indictment on felony charges, according to Orlando Weekly.

As per Florida law, elected officials facing felony or misdemeanor charges can be suspended pending legal proceedings.

Mayor Dyer is tasked with arranging a special election within 45 days of the suspension, ensuring continued representation for District 5 residents.

A special council meeting is slated to discuss logistical arrangements, with Hill'sHill's absence from the proceedings.

Orlando Commissioner Regina Hill, a native of Parramore, was arrested after a grand jury indictment on multiple felony charges. She has entered a plea of not guilty.

Despite a lengthy history of legal entanglements, Hill denies the accusations, asserting care and concern for the elderly woman akin to family.

The FDLE's investigation remains ongoing, with Hill facing a potential maximum sentence of 180 years if convicted on all counts.

The arrest and indictment of Orlando Commissioner Regina Hill underscore the gravity of financial exploitation and elder abuse.

Legal proceedings will determine the outcome while the community grapples with the betrayal of trust by a public official.

This article is owned by Latin Post.

Written by: Ross Key

WATCH: Orlando City Commissioner Regina Hill accused of exploiting 96-year-old woman - From WFTV Channel 9