Caregiver faces charges after dementia patient found dead on roadside

In Florida, authorities discovered the rotting body of Brenda Corbin, a dementia patient, hidden in the bushes on the side of a road. This grim finding occurred more than a year after her caregiver, Lori Hamilton, reported her missing. Hamilton, 60, claimed she woke up to find Corbin gone, despite the fact that Corbin did not have a cellphone or vehicle. Investigators noted Hamilton's lack of concern for Corbin's disappearance, as she failed to make any phone calls during her alleged search for her friend. Neighbors reported not seeing Corbin for some time, and surveillance footage did not capture the two friends walking their dog on the night Hamilton claimed Corbin went missing.

As the investigation progressed, police searched Hamilton's home, truck, and phone, collecting DNA evidence and removing discolored towels and bedding. A motion-sensor camera recorded Hamilton's vehicle near Babcock Ranch Preserve, and later footage showed the truck at a nearby intersection just before 5 AM on the day Corbin was reported missing. When questioned about her early-morning trip, Hamilton stated she was checking on her horse. Additionally, a leather belt was found near the location of Corbin's body, raising further suspicions.

Detectives also spoke with staff at a Tampa nursing home where Corbin had previously resided. They reported issues with Hamilton regarding Corbin's care, including her refusal to allow doctors to adjust Corbin's medication, which led to the involvement of the Florida Department of Children and Families. Corbin's son last spoke to her on May 16, 2025, using Hamilton's phone, indicating that Hamilton had control over Corbin's communication.

During a recorded phone call with Corbin's daughter, Hamilton denied any wrongdoing, stating, 'I would never.' However, police noted that Hamilton focused more on her treatment by law enforcement than on the concerns of Corbin's family. The investigation continues as Corbin's children seek answers about their mother's mysterious death, believing there is more to the story than what has been revealed.