A Texas caregiver, Regla “Su” Becquer, who owns unlicensed assisted living homes, has been arrested and charged with murder following the death of a resident earlier this year.
Arlington police have expanded their investigation to include at least 20 additional deaths at her facilities.
According to NBC News, Becquer, the owner of Love and Caring for People LLC, was charged with murder in connection with the January death of Steven Pankratz.
Court records from Tarrant County show she remains in custody on two separate $750,000 bonds.
“We have received allegations of abuse, theft, and fraud involving Ms. Becquer and her company,” stated Kelly Land, a crisis intervention specialist with the Arlington Police. “The accounts we’ve heard from clients and their families are deeply disturbing and heart-wrenching. We are committed to delivering justice for the families and victims.”
The Tarrant County medical examiner determined that Pankratz’s cause of death was mixed drug toxicity, with traces of trazodone, tramadol, and mirtazapine found in his system.
Arlington police have launched an investigation into the unlicensed group homes operated by Becquer.
Investigators have identified over 20 deaths of clients connected to Becquer’s facilities since September 2022.
Investigators allege that Becquer and her staff neglected proper care for clients, obstructed medical assistance for them, and attempted to sever communication between clients and their families.
They are also accused of unauthorized purchases using clients’ debit cards and retaining belongings of deceased clients, including phones and vehicles.
“We have uncovered deeply troubling activities within these homes, and our priority is ensuring no victims are overlooked,” said Chief of Police Al Jones. “If you or a loved one has been in one of these homes or knows of other locations where this company operates, we urge you to come forward. Our investigation has already led to several clients being removed from these homes to receive proper care, but there may be others in need of assistance.”
