Holbrook Man Arrested for Rape, Burglary

A Holbrook man was arrested Wednesday for an October 2009 sexual assault and burglary that occurred in Holtsville.

John Kluge, 23, of 4 Rachels Way, was charged with first degree rape and first degree burglary. He pleased not guilty Thursday and was ordered held on $1 million cash bail by a judge at district court in Central Islip.

According to Suffolk County Police, a woman was in the garage of her Holstville residence, which is South of the Long Island Expressway and West of Waverly Avenue, preparing to leave for work on October 26, at approximately 6:30 a.m., when she was burglarized and assaulted.

The suspect was described as a white male with a stocky build when the original police report was issued in 2009. He was wearing a black baseball cap, a black hooded sweatshirt and black pants. The victim stated the suspect also smelled strongly of cigarette smoke, police said.

"This is a huge relief," said JoAnne Mangone, a member of the Holtsville Civic Association. "This was of great concern for the residents of Holtsville, and I am sure they will be as pleased as I am that this guy has been caught. More importantly, I hope this news will bring the victim some peace. The police department has been working diligently on solving this case and we are truly grateful for their successful efforts."

Kluge is represented by attorney Gregory Grizopolous of Rockville Centre.