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Arrest Made in Series of Attacks on Elderly Women in Orlando

Peaceful assisted living facility in Orlando

News Summary

Deriko Montreze Hill, 26, was arrested following a disturbing series of crimes targeting elderly residents in assisted living facilities in Orange County. He faces multiple charges, including attempted sexual battery and burglary with assault, stemming from attacks on two vulnerable women. Hill’s apprehension followed a thorough investigation by local law enforcement after alarming incidents raised safety concerns among the community. The case highlights ongoing issues related to the safety of seniors in assisted living environments.

Orlando, Florida – Deriko Montreze Hill, a 26-year-old man, was arrested on May 20, 2025, following a series of attacks targeting elderly women in assisted living facilities in Orange County. Hill is charged with serious offenses linked to two incidents involving vulnerable senior citizens, including attempted sexual battery and burglary with assault.

Hill’s apprehension marks the conclusion of a thorough investigation by local law enforcement, including the Orange County Sheriff’s Office (OCSO) and the Orlando Police Department (OPD). The inquiry was catalyzed by an alarming incident that took place on April 29, 2025, when Hill allegedly attacked a 90-year-old resident in her apartment at HarborChase Assisted Living in Dr. Phillips. The elderly woman reported that Hill entered her home with malicious intent, attempted to sexually assault her, and tried to smother her as she resisted. Notably, before fleeing the scene, Hill expressed remorse by saying “I’m sorry, ma’am.”

Following this incident, the OCSO released a blurry still image from surveillance footage that identified Hill as the suspect in the HarborChase attack. His arrest occurred shortly after he was spotted at Brookdale Senior Living, situated two miles north of HarborChase. Reports of Hill lurking in the vicinity prompted deputies to investigate, leading to a brief foot chase, during which he attempted to escape.

Authorities formally charged Hill with several crimes related to the HarborChase incident, including attempted sexual battery, burglary of a dwelling while armed with assault or battery, and battery against a person aged 65 or older. Additionally, he faces further scrutiny over his involvement in another attack on April 15, 2025. This second incident occurred in the Orwin Manor neighborhood, where a 76-year-old woman awoke to Hill in her bedroom, reportedly attempting to undress her while instructing her to “just let it happen.”

Investigators have connected Hill to the Orwin Manor attack through DNA evidence, and he reportedly confessed during questioning by law enforcement that he visited Brookdale Senior Living intending to engage sexually with an elderly woman. Such disclosures raise questions about his mental state at the time of the confessions, which will need to be evaluated by a judge regarding their admissibility in court.

Witness accounts and surveillance imagery from both HarborChase and Brookdale were instrumental in linking Hill to both crimes. Following his arrest, Hill was found to have prepared letters of apology addressed to his victims, indicating a level of awareness regarding the nature of his actions. He is currently held in the Orange County Jail without bond as he awaits his first court appearance.

Both assisted living facilities, HarborChase and Brookdale, have reiterated their dedication to safeguarding their residents and maintaining a secure environment. They are working closely with law enforcement to ensure the ongoing safety and wellbeing of their communities. The OCSO underscored the message that senior citizens should feel secure in their homes, emphasizing that “no senior should ever be attacked in their home or apartment.”

The ongoing investigation continues, highlighting the importance of vigilance in protecting vulnerable populations in assisted living environments. The case reflects broader societal concerns regarding the safety of seniors, particularly in facilities designed to support their health and wellbeing.

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STAFF HERE ORLANDO WRITER
Author: STAFF HERE ORLANDO WRITER

ORLANDO STAFF WRITER The ORLANDO STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREOrlando.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Orlando, Orange County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as Orlando International Fringe Theatre Festival, Megacon Orlando, and Central Florida Fair. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Orlando Economic Partnership and Hispanic Chamber of Commerce Metro Orlando, plus leading businesses in leisure and hospitality that power the local economy such as Walt Disney World Resort, AdventHealth, and Universal Orlando. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREJacksonville.com, HEREPetersburg.com, HERETallahassee.com, and HERETampa.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Florida's dynamic landscape.

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