An Auburn man who police say fled to New York City after being indicted on charges for allegedly raping two children under the age of 15 has been arrested.
Donald Clarke was taken into custody on Wednesday after officers spotted him walking on Washington Street in Auburn. Last October, police investigated a complaint against the 47-year-old that alleged he repeatedly raped both underage victims.
The investigation was turned over to the Detective Bureau. After forensic interviews and evidence were collected, the case was presented to a Cayuga County Grand Jury. In January, they indicted the 47-year-old on the following charges:
- sexual conduct against a child (Less than 13) Class B Felony
- Rape in the Second Degree, Class D Felony (4 counts)
- Criminal Sex Act in the Second Degree, Class D Felony
- Endangering the Welfare of a Child, Class A Misdemeanor
Investigators believe Clarke recently returned to the area. At last word, Clarke was being held at the Cayuga County Jail
The fact that a defendant has been charged with a crime is merely an accusation, and the defendant is presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty.
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