Regina Hill’s Legal Team Files Motion to Strike Key State Witness Sandra Lewis, Citing Misconduct and Undisclosed Payments

Attorneys for Orlando City Commissioner Regina Hill filed a sweeping motion this week to strike Sandra Lewis, a key witness for the prosecution, from the State’s witness list in Hill’s ongoing criminal case. The motion accuses Lewis of providing evasive and false testimony during depositions, and alleges that the State failed to disclose more than $41,000 in payments Lewis received from a political action committee connected to State Attorney Andrew Bain—one of the central figures behind the charges against Hill.

The motion, filed by Hill’s attorneys Fritz Scheller and John Notari, argues that Lewis’s conduct during two separate depositions was “willful and blatant,” and that her testimony was riddled with contradictions, refusals to answer basic questions and statements that were later proven false by public records. The defense claims this behavior violates Florida’s criminal procedure rules and undermines Hill’s right to a fair trial.

Background on the Case

Hill, who represents District 5 on the Orlando City Commission, was indicted in March 2024 on multiple charges, including three counts of exploitation of an elderly or disabled person, two counts of fraudulent use of personal identification, and one count each of a scheme to defraud and mortgage fraud.

Sandra Lewis, a local canvasser and business owner, was listed by the State as a Category A witness—meaning she is considered essential to the prosecution’s case. Her testimony was expected to provide key insight into allegations that Hill misused her position for personal and financial gain.

Depositions Reveal Pattern of Evasion

According to court records, Lewis was deposed twice—once in April and again in May 2025. In both instances, Hill’s attorneys allege, Lewis obstructed the proceedings by refusing to answer routine questions, offering vague or contradictory statements, and at times behaving combatively.

During the first deposition, Lewis denied or failed to recall basic facts about her work history, her business Eboni Beauty Academy, and her employment with political campaigns including those of Commissioner Shaniqua “Shan” Rose and former State Attorney Andrew Bain. When presented with employment records contradicting her testimony, Lewis continued to avoid answering or claimed a lack of memory. At one point, she reportedly told attorneys, “This is not going to be civil,” and refused further questioning.

In her second deposition, Lewis continued to offer contradictory statements about her business activities, campaign work, and the nature of her beauty academy. She could not recall names of former students, the nature of payments received, or whether her business was even located in District 5—despite receiving public funds earmarked specifically for organizations in that area.

Undisclosed Payments Raise Brady Violation Claims

Perhaps more explosive are allegations that the State failed to disclose significant payments made to Lewis by Bain’s political action committee, Justice PC. Campaign finance records reveal that Justice PC paid Lewis $41,095 between August and November 2024—after she had already been listed as a key prosecution witness.

The motion argues that this financial relationship constitutes a violation of the landmark Brady v. Maryland ruling, which requires prosecutors to disclose material evidence favorable to the defense. The payments, defense attorneys argue, could significantly undermine Lewis’s credibility and suggest a conflict of interest or potential bias.

“It is beyond troubling that a key state witness received tens of thousands of dollars from the very office prosecuting this case,” said Hill’s attorneys in the filing. “Such actions subvert the integrity of the prosecution, if not the rule of law itself.”

Complications with City Funding and EDC Donations

The defense further claims that Lewis improperly received $3,200 in funds donated by Insomniac Events, the organizer of the Electric Daisy Carnival, which were designated for neighborhood associations in District 5. However, Lewis’s business, Eboni Beauty Academy, is not located in District 5. The motion alleges that these funds were funneled to Eboni despite the geographic restriction—raising additional questions about misallocation and credibility.

What Happens Next

Hill’s legal team is asking the court to formally exclude Lewis as a witness under both Florida Rule of Criminal Procedure 3.220(n) and constitutional protections established in Brady and Giglio. The court has not yet ruled on the motion.

Regina Hill continues to maintain her innocence and is actively fighting the charges against her. Her attorneys argue that the integrity of the case has been compromised by Lewis’s conduct and the State’s failure to disclose vital information.

The outcome of this motion could have far-reaching implications for the prosecution’s case—and for public trust in how high-profile cases are handled in Central Florida.

This is a developing story. Check back for updates as more information becomes available.

Read Former State Attorney Paid $41K to Key Witness in Regina Hill Case, Defense Says