St. Croix Man Arrested for January Home Invasion and Assault

OFFICIAL MUGSHOT: Lionel Benjamin, 37, was arrested by the Virgin Islands Police Department on May 4, 2026, in connection with a First-Degree Burglary and assault incident reported in January. (Photo by: VIPD)

By JOHN McCARTHY / St. Croix Sun Staff Writer

CHRISTIANSTED — A 37-year-old man was taken into custody Monday in connection with a burglary and assault that took place in early January.

According to the Virgin Islands Police Department, the investigation began on January 7, 2026, after a complainant reported an unauthorized entry at her apartment to the Ancilmo Marshall Command Police Station. The report alleged that a male suspect entered the residence without permission and assaulted a male acquaintance inside.

VIPD investigators identified the suspect as Lionel Benjamin. Following an investigation into the physical altercation, police apprehended Benjamin on May 4, 2026.

Benjamin has been charged with:

• Burglary First Degree

• Simple Assault and Battery

• Disturbing the Peace

Bail for Benjamin was set at $75,000.00. Following his arrest, he was processed and transported to the John Bell Adult Correctional Facility where he is currently held pending an Advice of Rights hearing.