MANASSAS, VA – A deeply disturbing case has shaken the community in Northern Virginia. Benjamin Alex Dinarte, a 32-year-old registered sex offender, has been charged with the rape and abduction of an 85-year-old woman at an assisted living facility in Manassas, just two days after being released on bail for allegedly abusing his children.

According to Prince William County Police, Dinarte entered The Fairmont by Barclay House early on June 20 through an unsecured rear door. He then made his way to the victim’s room, where he is accused of sexually assaulting and abducting the elderly resident.

Staff at the facility acted quickly, restraining Dinarte until police arrived and took him into custody without further incident. The victim was transported to a nearby hospital for treatment of non-life-threatening injuries.

Past Criminal History Raises Alarms

Dinarte’s criminal record includes a 2018 conviction for sexual battery after groping a woman at a local boutique. He is currently listed as a Tier-1 sex offender in Virginia.

Shockingly, just two days prior, on June 18, Dinarte was released on bond after being arrested for domestic assault involving his two young sons. Reports say he choked, hit, and banged their heads against the floor, even pulling out a knife during the incident. Despite the severity, he was allowed to return home on bail, raising serious concerns about Virginia’s current bail reform laws.

Dinarte also has past charges for abduction, grand larceny, and burglary, with some cases resulting in dropped charges or lenient sentencing.

Facility, Community in Shock

A spokesperson for The Fairmont by Barclay House said staff are “shocked and heartbroken” by the incident. The facility praised its team for acting quickly and confirmed it is offering support to the victim and her family.

Public Outcry Over Bail Policy

This case has triggered renewed scrutiny of Virginia's bail and pretrial detention policies. In 2021, the state changed its rules to prevent holding individuals solely based on their arrest history. Critics now argue that this allowed Dinarte’s release and ultimately led to this violent crime.

Dinarte is held without bond and is expected to appear in court later this month. He faces multiple felony charges, including rape, object sexual penetration, abduction, and burglary.

Stay with AMN-USA for updates on this case and related public safety and justice reform issues.

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