CENTRAL ISLIP, NY – Police have apprehended a man accused of breaking into the home of a 74-year-old woman in Holtsville and sexually assaulting her. John Warren Booker, 29, faces charges of rape and burglary following his arrest in the Bronx.
Authorities reported that Booker allegedly gained entry to the woman’s apartment by removing a window pane. The victim did not know her attacker, police said. Booker, originally from Ridge, had been staying with someone he knew in Holbrook, residing on an air mattress in the same apartment complex as the victim.
Law enforcement officials revealed that surveillance footage played a crucial role in identifying Booker as the suspect. After four days of intensive investigation, aided by the NYPD, police tracked him down.
The police commissioner commended the victim for her prompt action in calling 911, which set the investigation in motion. “If an individual like this is allowed to remain free, he might repeat such acts,” the commissioner stated, emphasizing the importance of the arrest.
Detectives, marshals, and the medical examiner were among those involved in the search, which culminated in Booker’s arrest. He is now facing charges of first-degree rape and first-degree burglary.
The case has shocked the community, with officials describing the crime as “unspeakable.” They stressed that such acts of violence will not be tolerated.
Booker remains in custody, awaiting legal proceedings. The investigation is ongoing, and updates will be provided as they become available.