Would-Be Extortionist Nabbed by FBI at St. Croix Park After Threatening Businessman and His Family

Following days of threats against a St. Croix businessman and his family, an FBI operation led to the arrest of the suspect who is now considered a flight risk and a danger to the community

ST. CROIX — On August 16, a would-be extortionist showed up to a prearranged rendezvous point at Altoona Lagoon Park and rummaged through a vehicle which he expected to contain a substantial cash payment. Instead of the money, Delani Benjamin found himself in handcuffs, arrested and charged with federal crimes.

Last Monday, a St. Croix businessman began getting calls and text messages from a blocked number. The person on the other end was a male with a Crucian accent, the businessman told police. The caller informed the businessman that he needed to pay $5000 to satisfy a drug debt, and said that if he didn’t pay, he would be killed. On Tuesday morning, the unknown man called again. “I’m coming for my $5000 before 8:30 a.m. or I will grab your wife and put her in a fish bag,” he reportedly told the businessman, refusing to heed protestations that the man was not involved in the drug trade and owed no drug debts to anyone.‌