A man initially released on bail after a violent assault in June — and permitted by the court to leave the territory while the case was pending — is now charged with first-degree murder after the victim died of his injuries two months later.
Travis Lawrence, 36, is accused of attacking 76-year-old Denston Bacchus inside Bacchus’ Estate St. George home on June 15. Bacchus, who sustained severe head injuries, was medevaced to Florida for specialized care and died on Aug. 20. A forensic autopsy later confirmed his death was a homicide, according to police.
At the time of the assault, Lawrence faced charges including assault and aggravated battery. He was released on bail with permission from the Superior Court to leave St. Croix while the case proceeded, according to police and court filings.
Witnesses told investigators they heard Bacchus calling for help outside before discovering him injured. Police say Bacchus had allowed Lawrence inside his home to provide assistance when Lawrence allegedly locked the screen door behind him and began striking him repeatedly. Bacchus was transported to Juan F. Luis Hospital before being airlifted off-island.
After Bacchus’ death, the case was upgraded to a homicide investigation. A first-degree murder warrant was signed on Sept. 23, with bail set at $1 million, according to a VIPD arrest report. Lawrence surrendered on Nov. 3 at the Wilbur H. Francis Command with counsel.
The court again granted his release, authorizing him to return to Tampa, Florida, under 24-hour house arrest. The conditions do not include electronic monitoring, according to a Tuesday press release.
In addition to first-degree murder, Lawrence is now charged with: assault in the first degree, assault in the third degree, aggravated assault and battery, and mayhem.
A second hearing is scheduled for Nov. 19 in V.I. Superior Court.
St. Croix Source
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