Arlington, Texas — Regla Becquer, 49, is currently under investigation for a series of alarming incidents surrounding the death of 20 individuals under her care within unlicensed care homes. Local authorities arrested Becquer on June 20, charging her with murder, following additional allegations of abuse and financial fraud within her network, known as ‘Love and Caring for People’.
Investigators discovered a concerning pattern of death among patients, extending back to September 2022. Their findings suggest that these additional seven deaths occurred before the officials began their probe, raising significant concerns about systemic issues in the care provided.
The Arlington Chief of Police, Al Jones, stated, “We’ve learned about some very concerning things occurring within these homes and we want to ensure that no victims are falling through the cracks.” He emphasized efforts to rescue multiple clients from the homes, providing them with legitimate care while acknowledging the possibility of more victims needing help.
These care homes reportedly left patients in squalid conditions while Becquer allegedly accessed their bank accounts. One particular victim, Kelly Pankratz, experienced a swift decline in health shortly after joining one of her facilities. His brother, Chris Devendorf, expressed concerns over noticeable changes in Pankratz’s behavior, including slurred speech and a generally confused state, after being admitted to the facility.
Devendorf also accused Becquer of neglecting to take his brother to scheduled doctor appointments and obstructing their family communication. Within this period, Pankratz’s financial activities raised flags. His family stated that over $100,000 was spent from his account under unusual circumstances, hinting at potential financial exploitation, given his well-known frugal nature.
Additionally, the investigation unearthed that several patients were allegedly moved around different homes to elude authorities and maintain isolation from their families. Arlington police disclosed that Becquer strategically hindered communication between the patients and their relatives.
Among the tragic cases connected to the homes, one woman was found to have signed over the deed to her home to Becquer via a handwritten will shortly before her death, prompting a forgery probe.
Questions about the comprehensive oversight of care homes in Arlington also surfaced as the city does not require annual licensing for such establishments, unlike neighboring jurisdictions like Dallas. This case has spotlighted potential regulatory gaps in monitoring unlicensed care facilities.
Local residents and former patients have expressed immense concerns about the handling of these homes. A former resident recounted harrowing treatment, mentioning misuse of medication and negligence to basic needs that pointed to an egregious lack of oversight and care.
As more details unfold, the community remains in shock and calls for stringent regulatory measures are intensifying. Local authorities committed to continuing their investigation, suggesting that further charges are probable as they unravel the full extent of the abuse and malpractice within these unlicensed facilities.