In a tragic turn of events, the death of 60-year-old Steven Kelly Pankratz in Arlington, Texas, has been ruled a homicide due to mixed drug toxicity, according to the Tarrant County Medical Examiner’s office. Pankratz, who passed away under suspicious circumstances while under the care of Regla Becquer, the owner of an unlicensed group home, had reportedly complained to his family about receiving excessive amounts of unidentified pills twice daily.

Allegations and Charges Against Regla Becquer

Regla Becquer, operator of several unlicensed group homes under Loving and Caring for People LLC in Tarrant County, now faces a murder charge following the autopsy results. This charge comes months after initial charges of endangerment and abandonment related to other clients in her care.

Court documents indicate that Pankratz, after being hospitalized and referred to one of Becquer’s group homes, saw his health deteriorate rapidly under her guardianship. Becquer allegedly assumed power of attorney over Pankratz, leading to missed medical appointments and frequent transfers between homes within her network.

Legal and Medical Findings

Upon discovery of Pankratz’s lifeless body in January at a residence on Lake Whitney Drive, first responders noted signs of rigor mortis, suggesting he may have been deceased for an extended period. The subsequent autopsy revealed the presence of a lethal combination of painkillers and antidepressants in his system, contributing to his untimely death.

Becquer’s legal troubles extend beyond this recent murder charge. Police are investigating her connection to multiple deaths associated with her group homes dating back to 2022. Concerns have been raised regarding the care and supervision provided at these facilities, which operated without the required licenses.

Continuing Investigation and Community Response

Arlington police, who have been actively involved in the investigation, anticipate further developments in the case against Becquer. Community members and advocates have expressed shock and concern over the allegations, calling for stricter oversight of group homes and similar facilities to prevent such tragedies.

Conclusion

The unfolding case of Regla Becquer and her unlicensed group homes in Tarrant County underscores the critical need for regulatory scrutiny and accountability in caregiving environments. As authorities continue their investigations into the circumstances surrounding Pankratz’s death and others, the community awaits further updates on this troubling series of events.

For more news updates, download The Local News App and stay informed.

Source