ORLANDO, Fla. — Suspended Orlando District 5 Commissioner Regina Hill says she's already voted in Tuesday's special election that will replace her seat, but Hill is confident she will overcome her legal battle and be reinstated.

Hill was suspended after she was charged with seven felonies including exploitation of an elderly person, enacting a scheme to defraud, mortgage fraud and fraudulently using someone else’s ID to make purchases. She has denied wrongdoing and pled not guilty to all charges. 

“There is not much I can say regarding the case (...) my attorneys who represent me — I have full confidence in them along with the judicial system and just anxiously awaiting on my day in court,” said Hill. “Folks can have charges or allegations brought against them, but I do believe in the judicial system and due process as any other citizen. I’m going to be given the opportunity to tell my truth.” 

Hill says District 5 needs more small Black businesses along the Church Street corridor and hopes the interim commissioner with continue that work along with combating homelessness, helping to grow affordable housing opportunities in the community. 

“There is not enough room in the current shelter,” she said. “That has got to happen.”

While she says she understands the seriousness of the charges she’s facing, Hill still says she still plans to have a pulse on things happening in District 5.

A path does remain for her to regain her seat. 

Spectrum News asked Hill, “Do you have confidence that you will return to your seat?” She replied, “Absolutely. I believe in the truth and the truth will prevail.” 

Hill’s legal case continues to matriculate through the justice system. Her next court dates are listed in July.