A recent investigation by the Florida Department of Children and Families (DCF) has found that State Representative Regina Hill did not exploit an elderly woman, despite earlier concerns and media attention.
The case began when questions were raised about Hill’s relationship with an 88-year-old woman named Virginia Bell.
Hill had been helping Bell for months and was even granted legal guardianship over her. But reports surfaced suggesting that Hill may have been taking advantage of Bell’s condition for personal benefit. This led to a DCF investigation.
According to newly released documents, DCF closed the case on June 3, stating that there was not enough evidence to support any claims of elder exploitation. The documents clearly say, “The case is being closed with no indicators of abuse, neglect, or exploitation.”
Back in April, the Orlando Police had also looked into this matter after Virginia Bell’s family raised concerns.
At the time, Bell was found living in a property owned by Hill, and there were reports of luxury purchases being made under Bell’s name.
Some of these included travel and home renovations. Bell’s son claimed his mother was being used, especially after she had recently suffered a stroke and dementia.
However, Hill maintained from the beginning that she was only trying to help Bell and improve her quality of life.
She said she had known Bell for years and treated her like family. Hill also insisted she had stepped in because Bell was alone and had no one to care for her.
The court later removed Hill as Bell’s guardian and gave temporary guardianship to Bell’s son. But now, with the DCF report saying there was no wrongdoing, the situation has taken a new turn.
This outcome is a major relief for Regina Hill, who has been under public scrutiny for months. As of now, she has not responded to the report, but her legal team is expected to make a statement soon.
The case remains a reminder of how sensitive elder care issues are and how quickly public opinion can be shaped by early reports. With the DCF officially clearing Hill, the narrative around the case may now shift.